WHO and ILO: Set boundaries on working hours when teleworking

As teleworking becomes more commonplace, employees should keep to regular work schedules and set boundaries on working hours, said the World Health Organisation (WHO) and International Labour Organisation (ILO).

“When organised and carried out properly, telework can be beneficial for physical and mental health and social well-being”, WHO and ILO said in a report. 

Employees should also establish individual telework plans and clarify expectations about timelines and expected results, the report added. 

Besides that, WHO and ILO also encourage workers to connect with co-workers for virtual gatherings and informal chats, and take short breaks  for physical, social or recreational activities.

“Teleworking and particularly hybrid working are here to stay and are likely to increase after the pandemic, as both companies and individuals have experienced its feasibility and benefits,” Vera Paquete-Perdigão, director of the Governance and Tripartism Department at ILO, said in a press release.

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“As we move away from this ‘holding pattern’ to settle into a new normal, we have the opportunity to embed new supportive policies, practices and norms to ensure millions of teleworkers have healthy, happy, productive and decent work,” the director added.