The Risks of Remote and Hybrid Working 

ByBritish_Style_Society

Remote and hybrid working are firmly embedded in modern working life, especially in the UK. It’s thought that around one third of adults between 30 and 49 years old were hybrid workers in 2025.

This partially from the office, partially from home working model offers flexibility and improved work–life balance for many. However, working mostly away from the traditional office brings a few risks that employers and employees both need to understand and manage. Here’s what you need to know about.

Health challenges at home

Poor ergonomics is one of the most common issues associated with home working. Many people work from kitchen tables or spare bedrooms that were never designed for all-day computer use. 

Over time, this can lead to back pain, neck stiffness, tension in the shoulders, and wrist problems. If unaddressed, all the above could contribute to the onset of a repetitive strain injury.

Simple steps can significantly reduce these risks, including:

  • Using a supportive chair with adjustable height
  • Keeping screens at eye level to avoid neck strain
  • Keeping feet flat on the floor and elbows at desk height
  • Taking frequent breaks to stretch and move around

Creating a safe and comfortable workstation doesn’t need to be complex. Small adjustments can help to keep discomfort to a minimum.

Mental wellbeing and isolation

Reduced face-to-face contact is another challenge, particularly for fully remote workers. Without informal chats and social interaction, employees might experience loneliness and a sense of disconnection. This can negatively affect their motivation and overall mental wellbeing.

To support mental health while working remotely, workers should try to:

  • Arrange regular check-ins with colleagues and managers
  • Follow routines that help to keep work separate from personal life
  • Make time for social interaction, virtually and in person
  • Speak openly about workload and personal concerns

Hybrid models can help, but only if time in the office is used meaningfully to maintain and foster working relationships. 

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

Legal safety responsibilities

Employers’ health and safety duties still apply when staff work remotely. Guidance from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) makes it clear that risks must be assessed regardless of location.

Even for hybrid and remote workers, employers must consider the risk of accidents at work. Assessments should cover trip hazards, electrical safety, workstation setup, stress and fatigue. 

Employees have a responsibility to follow guidance and raise concerns. Meanwhile, organisations must proactively protect both wellbeing and productivity beyond the office.

Cybersecurity and digital risks

Finally, working outside secure office networks can increase exposure to cybersecurity threats. Unsecured Wi-Fi networks and weak passwords are common risks, and many organisations have seen a rise in cyber incidents.

Safer online practices include:

  • Using strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication
  • Avoiding public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive work
  • Keeping software and work devices up to date
  • Remaining alert to suspicious emails and links

Alongside a comfortable and ergonomic setup, cybersecurity and legal awareness are all essential components of safe remote working. Remote and hybrid working can be highly effective, but only when risks are recognised and managed properly.

Top photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

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