Working Fom Home as a Risk

Radon as a Particular Danger When Working From Home

Abstract

While being paid to work from home in Germany had been something of an exception for years, the rules on social contact suddenly changed in March 2020 as part of COVID measures. Consequently, the percentage of employees working from home increased from 10% to around 25%. More than three years later, this figure has not significantly reduced, and some assume that many employees will now work from home permanently. This seems to work well for certain jobs and, despite some criticism, clearly offers practical and/or economic advantages for both employees and employers. While working from home might once have been considered a temporary measure, it has now become a permanent workplace, subject to workplace regulations, even if only used part-time. As a result, workplaces in Germany must meet certain legal requirements.

One exception, however, is the potential of a not insignificant health risk for employees. Since 2021, workplaces in so-called radon precautionary areas have been required to be monitored. If these measurements indicate increased exposure to this radioactive noble gas, action is required. However, this is not an obligation for employers of staff working from home, as it would be if they were working from the company premises.

Based on the literature, the problem is presented in three aspects. The combination of these points makes the risk mentioned clear. The full text of this publication explains the situation briefly outlined here, outlines the potential risk to employees, and provides a step-by-step guide on how to recognise it yourself and take action.