The digital revolution is transforming the way we work. Teleworking has become increasingly common in businesses around the world. In France, the need to protect teleworkers has become increasingly apparent. This has led to the development of laws, policies, and agreements to ensure the rights of teleworkers are safeguarded.
In this blog, we’ll take a close look at the legislations surrounding teleworking in France, and how they’ve adapted to keep up with the times. Whether you’re an employer or an employee, understanding the legal framework that governs teleworking in France is essential to ensure a secure work environment.
What Is Telework?
Telework is a perfect solution for businesses looking to maximize their productivity and efficiency. At the same time, it gives the employees the flexibility to work remotely. It enables businesses to reduce their overhead costs while providing access to talent from any location around the world.
Telework also provides employees with more flexible working hours. Thus, allowing them to work from the comfort of their own home. With the modern technology available today, telework is becoming an increasingly popular choice for businesses looking to get the most out of their employees.
Telework Policy In France
France has specific rules and regulations regarding telework. This legislation has seen some revisions in pre and post COVID-19 period. Employers and employees can negotiate the details of their telework arrangement through a collective agreement. It can be a charter, a verbal or written agreement.
Employees with roles that can be done remotely can request to work from home. Employers must justify any refusal of this request. Employers also cannot modify the employment contract. Telework is a great option for both employers and employees to maximize efficiency and productivity while allowing for greater flexibility.
General Guidelines Of Teleworking In France
Employers must follow some guidelines regarding telework in France. Employers allowing teleworking must clearly outline which positions are eligible and how employees will switch to and from teleworking.
Also, employers must inform employees how acceptance of the teleworking conditions will be ensured. Employees also hold the right to know the working time control, regulation mode and the time slots when the employer can contact them.
Additionally, employers must inform employees of any restrictions on the use of computers and communication tools, with clear consequences for non-compliance. To ensure that working from home is comfortable and productive, employers must also hold an annual meeting to assess the employee’s working conditions and workload.
Finally, employers should provide a work-from-home allowance, exempt from income tax up to a limit of €580 per annum, as compensation to employees.
Health And Safety For Employees
Employers are responsible for any accidents that occur during telework performance from the employee’s home office, just like they are with their in-office premises. To ensure a safe work environment, employers must conduct a risk assessment and take measures to prevent any potential physical or mental hazards.
Employees should also be familiar with health and safety regulations and inform the company of any accidents that occur. The SEC or employer may request access to the home office to verify that safety measures have been implemented.
They must provide prior notification to the employee before visiting. The employee may also request an inspection visit at any time. By taking the necessary precautions and following these regulations, employers and employees can ensure a safe home office environment.
Accountability For Data Security
Employers are accountable for safeguarding their employee’s data, even when it is stored in data centers, they have no physical or legal control over it. The French National Commission of Informatics and Freedom (CNIL) recommends the following best practices for remote workers to protect the company and personal data:
- Frequently change passwords and update computer software.
- Connect to trusted networks and avoid sharing access with third parties.
- Prefer exchanging data via a VPN where possible.
- Install an antivirus and firewall.
- Avoid transferring confidential data through consumer storage, online file sharing, collaborative editing, or messaging services.
Conclusion
Telework legislation in France is in line with the current global trend about the workplace. With laws, policies, and agreements in place, employers can ensure better working conditions for their employees, while also providing them with more flexibility and autonomy.
