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In 2022, 18 % of workers in Europe worked mostly from home, while an additional 17% worked remotely from other locations such as clients’ premises, outdoor sites or public spaces, a shift made possible by the rise of digitalisation. Virtual collaboration tools, cloud-based platforms and other technological advances have enabled workers to perform their tasks from various locations, but while these digital tools offer new opportunities to remotely monitor worker wellbeing, ensure compliance with safety standards, and provide training, they also present new occupational safety and health (OSH) challenges for remote workers. As this transformation continues, it is essential that organisations adapt their OSH strategies to address the risks and opportunities of working in remote environments, safeguarding the safety and health of their workforce.

Opportunities presented by remote and hybrid work for OSH 
One of the key advantages is the flexibility these models provide, allowing workers to manage their work schedules and environments, which can lead to improved work-life balance and reduced stress levels. The elimination of commuting for those working from home reduces exposure to traffic accidents and pollution, while also giving workers more time for personal wellbeing activities. Digital technologies for Remote work is any type of working arrangement to work from home or – more generally – away from the employer’s premises or in a fixed location. In this context the focus is on remote work enabled by digital technologies (e.g. personal computers, smartphones, laptops, software packages and the internet). allow as well to remove workers from dangerous or hazardous environments, as tasks that were previously carried out in person, exposing the worker to risks, can now be carried out remotely, such as in the case of maintenance of industrial equipment.

Moreover, remote and hybrid work arrangements may enable companies to access a broader talent pool, contributing to a more diverse workforce and, potentially, to more inclusive work practices. In addition, there are numerous examples of industries, such as education, healthcare and professional services, that have successfully transitioned to hybrid work, maintaining productivity while simultaneously enhancing worker safety and health through better ergonomic setups and flexible hours.

Challenges and risks for OSH in remote and hybrid work models 
Ergonomic issues are a significant concern, as many workers lack proper remote workstations, leading to an increase in musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Prolonged sedentary behaviour, common in these settings, contributes to cardiovascular problems, while psychosocial risks, such as isolation and disconnection from reduced social interaction, exacerbate mental health issues like anxiety.

Additionally, remote and hybrid work introduces new risks, such as stress and burnout related to the extensive use of the Remote work is any type of working arrangement to work from home or – more generally – away from the employer’s premises or in a fixed location. In this context the focus is on remote work enabled by digital technologies (e.g. personal computers, smartphones, laptops, software packages and the internet). technologies (the so-called ‘technostress’), or motion sickness related to the use of virtual or augmented reality technologies. Constant technological advancements also demand ongoing re-skilling, adding further stress to those who have to use the technology without the required skills. Finally, the pervasive connectivity in remote work raises concerns about digital surveillance, eroding privacy and contributing to additional mental health pressures.

Navigating the future of work and OSH 
To ensure the safety and wellbeing of workers, employers and policymakers must adopt a balanced approach that incorporates both technological solutions and human-centred policies, keeping OSH at the forefront of this evolving work landscape.

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