Draft amendments to Labor Code provide for an equivalent for remote work

An allowance for remote work or a lump sum for the use of private tools while working remotely is provided for in a draft amendment to the Labor Code. The costs of remote work incurred by the employee are to be compensated by the employer.

According to the current state of the law, an employer may direct an employee to perform remote work to counteract the spread of COVID-19. Remote work can be carried out at the employee's place of residence, but not only. It is permissible to work remotely in another place (for example, on dedicated premises or in another branch of the workplace). The employer shall provide the equipment and other tools necessary to perform the work and cover the costs involved.

This is because there is no doubt that an employee who works from home incurs additional costs, such as Internet fees, increased electricity costs, or increased water consumption. On the other hand, remote work reduces costs on the employer's side.

The Minister of Family and Social Policy, Marlena Maląg, admits that work is underway to make remote work a permanent part of the Labor Code. The draft also regulates the costs of remote work. Thus, for example, the use of private equipment will make the employee entitled to a cash equivalent. Its amount depends on the arrangements with the employer. It will also be possible to pay a lump sum.

(infor.pl)