In recent years, remote work has increasingly become a common benefit offered by companies operating in the local market. One of the main reasons for its adoption is the reduction of costs for both employees and companies. Additionally, in some corporations, internal policies and the fact that the supervisor is based abroad make in-office presence less essential. Recently, a law regulating remote work, including working from home with the help of technology, was passed and published in Romania.
What Romanian Employees Should Know About This Topic
– Definition of Remote Work: Remote work refers to any form of work organization that occurs outside the office space provided by the employer, for at least one day per month, using technology.
– Work Schedule: To fulfill their job duties, employees must organize their work schedule in agreement with the employer. The employer has the right to monitor the employee’s activity under the conditions established in the contract. Overtime is allowed, with written consent from both parties, but only for full-time employees.
– Agreement: Remote work is based on the mutual agreement of the parties and must be explicitly stated in the individual employment contract (or an addendum to the contract). If an employee refuses to work remotely, they cannot be sanctioned or dismissed.
– Employer’s Obligations: The employer must provide all necessary conditions for an employee to work from a location other than the company’s office (e.g., laptop, internet connection). However, these aspects can be negotiated between the parties.
– Equal Rights: Employees working remotely have the same rights as those working in the office, such as annual leave or sick leave.
– Safety Standards: The employer must ensure that all occupational safety standards are met at home, and the Territorial Labor Inspectorates may conduct inspections.
What a Remote Work Contract Should Include
– Clear Statement: A clear statement that the employee works in a remote work system.
– Schedule: The period and/or days when the employee works at a location organized by the employer.
– Work Location: The location(s) where remote work will be performed, as agreed by both parties.
– Work Schedule and Monitoring: The work schedule and the specific method by which the employer will monitor the employee’s activity during this time.
– Responsibilities: The responsibilities of both parties, depending on where the work is performed, including safety and health responsibilities.
– Transport of Materials: The employer’s obligation to provide transportation for any materials the employee uses if necessary.
– Internal Regulations: The employer’s obligation to inform the employee about the internal regulations in the collective labor contract and/or internal regulations (such as data protection rules) and the employee’s obligation to comply with them.
– Employee Meetings: Measures taken by the employer to ensure that the employee can regularly meet with colleagues.
– Cost Coverage: The conditions under which the employer will cover the expenses associated with remote work.