WFH stands for work from home and describes an arrangement where employees perform some or all of their work remotely, usually from their home rather than a traditional workplace.
What is work from home (WFH)?
Work From Home (WFH) is a flexible working arrangement that allows employees to perform their job remotely, using digital tools and technology to stay connected with colleagues, systems and business processes.
While WFH became more widely adopted in recent years, many organisations now use a range of workplace models including fully remote, hybrid and office-based arrangements. The suitability of WFH often depends on the nature of the role, business requirements and organisational policies.
From an HR and payroll perspective, WFH arrangements still require employers to manage working hours, leave, attendance, performance expectations and workplace obligations consistently. Clear policies and processes help ensure employees understand expectations regardless of where work is performed.
Things to know
- WFH is a working arrangement rather than an employment type.
- Pay, employment status and workplace entitlements generally remain unchanged when employees work from home.
- Employers may still have workplace health and safety responsibilities for employees working remotely.
- Accurate time recording may remain important for payroll, workforce management and compliance purposes.
- Many organisations combine WFH with office-based work through hybrid working arrangements.
FAQs
How is WFH different from hybrid working?
WFH refers to employees working remotely from home, while hybrid working usually combines home working and time spent in a workplace location.
What tools are needed to WFH?
Digital tools, from the internet, Wi-Fi and mobile devices to apps for communication and collaboration.
Does working from home affect employee pay?
In most cases, employees receive the same pay and employment entitlements regardless of whether they work from home or in a workplace.
Do employees need to record their working hours when working from home?
This depends on the role and employment arrangements, but many organisations continue to track hours worked, attendance and leave regardless of work location.
Why do organisations offer WFH arrangements?
WFH arrangements may support flexibility, employee preferences, talent attraction and operational requirements, depending on the needs of the organisation and workforce.
What should employers include in a WFH policy?
Many organisations include guidance on working hours, communication expectations, equipment, information security, workplace health and safety responsibilities and performance expectations.
