Question
Is the agency required to check the safety and security of a home-based telework office?
Answer
No. It is the employee's responsibility to maintain a clean, safe and productive home office environment. Depending on the requirements of the agency telework policy, a manager may ask the employee to complete a safety checklist self-certifying the home office is free from hazards. The checklist generally provides a description of the agreed upon alternative worksite or designated work area, a self-certifying assessment of its overall safety, and if signed, assumes compliance.