What are some must-haves for a safe work from home culture?

With more and more businesses adopting remote work since the 2020 pandemic, creating a safe and secure work-from-home culture is essential. Here are some key elements to consider:

Secure Technology:

• VPN: Use a Virtual Private Network to protect your employees' internet connections. For most this is a vital part of your overall security posture. Particularly if you are in a regulated industry and will be accessing company servers over the web.
• Strong Passwords: Encourage employees to use complex, unique passwords.
• Regular Updates: Keep software and operating systems up-to-date with security patches. Use a management platform (or RMM) to view, manage, and deploy updates to devices.
• Data Encryption: Encrypt sensitive data to prevent unauthorized access. A VPN will encrypt in transit, but the hard drive of your machines should also have encryption enabled. 

Clear Communication:

• Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular meetings or video calls to maintain communication.
• Clear Expectations: Clearly define roles, responsibilities, and deadlines.
• Effective Tools: Use collaboration tools like Slack, Teams, or Zoom.

Ergonomic Workspaces:

• Proper Setup: Ensure employees have ergonomic workstations to prevent injuries.
• Comfortable Chairs: Provide comfortable chairs and adjustable desks.
• Regular Breaks: Encourage employees to take short breaks throughout the day.

Mental Health Support:

• Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Offer EAPs to address stress and mental health concerns.
• Flexible Schedules: Allow for flexible work hours to accommodate personal needs.
• Social Connections: Facilitate virtual team-building activities and social interactions.

Security Awareness Training:

• Phishing Prevention: Educate employees about phishing scams and other online threats.
• Data Security: Teach employees how to handle sensitive data responsibly.
• Incident Response Plan: Develop a plan for responding to security breaches.

Remember a safe work-from-home culture is built on trust, communication, and a commitment to employee well-being. By implementing these essential elements, you can create a positive and productive remote work environment.