Working from Home Policy
Upper Glasgow Council – Working From Home Policy
Purpose
This policy outlines the principles and requirements for working from home (WFH) arrangements at Upper Glasgow Council, ensuring business continuity, staff wellbeing, and compliance with legal obligations.
Scope
Applies to all council employees whose roles can be performed remotely, subject to operational needs and management approval.
1. Eligibility & Approval
WFH is permitted where job duties allow and council operations are supported.
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Arrangements must be discussed and agreed with your direct manager.
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Staff may be required to work from home due to government directives or safety concerns.
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Staff on performance improvement plans or who have resigned are not eligible for WFH.
2. Staff Responsibilities
Maintain a safe, distraction-free workspace that meets Work Health & Safety (WHS) standards.
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Complete and submit a signed WFH Checklist (with workspace photos) to HR annually or when workspace changes.
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Use council-issued equipment only; do not remove office equipment except your assigned laptop.
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Be available and responsive during standard business hours (9:00am–5:00pm), unless otherwise agreed.
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Communicate daily status via Teams and update your Outlook Calendar to reflect your work location.
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Dress in business attire for external meetings.
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Report any health, safety, or wellbeing hazards, incidents, or near misses promptly.
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Allow access for WHS inspections or equipment retrieval if required.
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Protect and secure council-issued devices at all times.
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3. Manager Responsibilities
Ensure staff are working according to agreed tasks, KPIs and council policies.
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Schedule regular communication and share relevant information with remote staff.
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Adjust timelines and assess ongoing suitability for WFH if productivity or output is affected.
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4. Working Hours & Flexibility
Standard hours are 9:00am–5:00pm; flexibility is encouraged to accommodate personal appointments.
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Personal appointments during business hours must be reflected in your Outlook Calendar, and working hours adjusted to meet minimum requirements.
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5. Accountability & Performance
Productivity is measured by results and output, not hours worked.
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Staff must meet all job responsibilities and performance expectations, regardless of work location.
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Council may require staff to return to the office if productivity declines.
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6. Equipment & Costs
Staff must ensure equipment is functional and can access council files remotely.
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Staff are responsible for their own phone and internet charges; council will not reimburse these costs.
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Not all council services may be available remotely; staff must not impose extra costs on the council.
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7. Indemnity
Staff indemnify the council against loss or damage to personal property and third-party claims, except where the council is negligent.
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8. Related Documents & Legislation
WFH Checklist
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Incident Report Form
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For questions or to request WFH arrangements, contact your manager or HR.