An alternate worksite is a telework center or a specific workspace within a home or another approved location other than the employee’s office at the official duty station, e.g., a desk in a home office.
- There must be no problem with moisture if the workspace is in a basement.
- The workspace must be separate from any major family activity area.
- The workspace must be secure from pets and family members.
- Background or distracting noise must be minimal (e.g., television, other persons, outside traffic).
- Equipment must not be easily viewed from outside/external areas.
- Lighting must be directed behind or to the side of line of vision, not in front or above it.
- There must be protected or secure storage for files, documents, portable electronic storage, etc., e.g., locks on an office door or on file cabinet drawers.
- Supplies/resources must be close to the workspace.
- Home offices must comply with lease/association agreements.
- There must be a safe exit path from the workspace (recommended width = 36”).
- An evacuation plan must be established.
- A smoke detector/alarm must be present and functional.
- A fire extinguisher must be near the workspace.
- First aid supplies must be adequate.
- Extension/power cords must be secured and in safe condition.
- Electrical outlets must not be overloaded, and power surge protection must be in use.
- There must be no tripping hazards with electrical cords, loose rugs or carpet.
- Equipment must be kept out of direct sunlight and away from heaters.
- The air quality/ventilation must be adequate.
- The workspace and environment must be uncluttered (e.g., amount of paper at reasonable levels).
- Overhead shelves or cabinets must not be in hazardous locations.
- Property insurance is to be maintained by the employee (e.g. homeowners, renters, or liability).
- To the best of your knowledge, the workspace must be free of material containing asbestos.
- There must be a drinkable water supply available.
- There must be a lavatory available with hot and cold running water.
- All stairs with four or more steps must be equipped with handrails.
- There must be privacy for confidential phone conversations.
- Appropriate telework space, with ergonomically correct chair, desk, and computer equipment must be utilized.
- Any work-related accident occurring at the telework site must be reported immediately to the supervisor. All medical documentation related to the accident must be reported. It may be necessary for an agency representative to access the home office to investigate the report.