Home office and hybrid work are becoming increasingly important in the world of work. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies had to quickly adapt to new working models, and in many cases, these work arrangements have become long-term solutions. The legal aspects of these new work forms deserve special attention. The goal of this article is to help you understand the legal questions related to home office and hybrid work.
Legal Issues of Home Office and Hybrid Work
The legal regulation of home office and hybrid work in Hungary has undergone significant changes in recent years. The Hungarian Labor Code (Mt.) and related regulations increasingly allow for telecommuting and flexible working models. In this article, we take a detailed look at the most important legal aspects, including the need to amend the employment contract, adherence to working hours and rest periods, as well as workplace safety and the protection of employee rights.
Amendment of the Employment Contract
The introduction of home office and hybrid work typically requires an amendment to the employment contract. The employer must ensure that the employee is informed about the place of work, whether it is home office or a hybrid work arrangement. The employment contract should clearly define the working conditions, and the employee must accept the changes.
Working Hours and Rest Periods
Even in the case of home office and hybrid work, the regulations regarding working hours and rest periods must be followed. It is necessary to ensure that the rights of employees are upheld by granting sufficient rest time and avoiding overtime. The employer must monitor working hours and ensure that employees do not work for excessive periods.
Workplace Safety and Health
The employer is also responsible for the safety and health of the employee in home office and hybrid work situations. It must be ensured that the employee has a safe working environment at home to avoid accidents or health issues. Employers are obligated to check whether the employee’s home workspace is safe.
Employee Rights
Employee rights are also central to home office and hybrid work. Employees have the right to an appropriate working environment, the preservation of a balance between work and private life, and the adherence to the terms outlined in the employment contract. To protect these rights, the employer must ensure that working conditions meet legal requirements.
Employer Obligations
For employers, it is important to properly regulate the conditions for home office and hybrid work. They must provide the employees with the necessary equipment, comply with working time regulations, and ensure the safety and health of the employees. Furthermore, employers must ensure that the work location and working conditions are in compliance with legal standards.
Closing Thoughts
The legal questions related to home office and hybrid work are complex and diverse. It is essential to establish clear legal frameworks between employers and employees to ensure smooth work processes. If you have any questions regarding the legal aspects of home office or hybrid work, our lawyers are available to assist you.
Dr. Katona Géza, LL.M. ügyvéd (Rechtsanwalt / attorney at law)
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Katona és Társai Ügyvédi Társulás
(Katona & Partner Rechtsanwaltssozietät / Attorneys’ Association)
H-106 Budapest, Tündérfürt utca 4.
Tel.: +36 1 225 25 30
Mobil: + 36 70 344 0388
Fax: +36 1 700 27 57