Preparations are in full swing for the implementation of telework in the public sector from 1 April. This year, the new system will be implemented for 20 days, whilst from next year the number of days will increase to 50.
Employees will be able to work using the telework method from their place of residence.
However, the department head can give approval for telework from any other location, provided the smooth execution of official duties is ensured, and the terms and conditions provided for by legislation are observed.
Workspace requirements
The employee must ensure that their telework space is suitable for the effective execution of their duties.
Specifically, they must have or be able to configure a suitable space in their home, which will be used exclusively by them during telework, have adequate lighting and basic equipment such as a desk and ergonomic chair, and be quiet and isolated to ensure concentration and effectiveness, as well as the security and protection of official documents.
Securing the furniture and equipment required for telework is the employee’s own responsibility.
The Public Administration and Personnel Department (PAPD) has issued a handbook with guidelines for the actions services must take to implement telework.
At the same time, information is provided on the application submission process and an explanation of telework implementation terms, as well as instructions to civil servants on taking preventive and protective measures aimed at reducing or eliminating occupational hazards.
The handbook also includes binding instructions for the security and protection of personal data.
Seven implementation steps
According to the PAPD handbook, seven steps are provided to facilitate telework implementation. Initially, the suitability of each service’s employees for telework will be examined, and then those deemed suitable will be registered.
The relevant decision will be taken by the department head.
Subsequently, employees deemed suitable who wish to telework must submit an expression of interest form to their superior. The third stage concerns the registration of employees who expressed interest and were deemed suitable for telework.
The next step is to provide the employee with an official computer, whilst the relevant service must contact the competent officials of the Information Technology Services Department for installation of necessary applications and software (Microsoft Office 365, Cisco Jabber), as well as all necessary security tools, and to arrange access to the eOASIS system.
The supervisor will then proceed to schedule telework days. With the completion of the first six steps, the employee will be able to officially apply telework.
Application requirements
In the expression of interest form, employees will be asked to declare whether they have studied the relevant legislation and whether they accept the terms of telework.
Additionally, they must answer whether they have a suitable telework space, whether it will be used exclusively by them, whether it is adequate for the smooth execution of their duties, and whether they have a fast and secure internet connection and can work without distractions.
Finally, interested parties must study the guidelines for safety and health during telework and complete a relevant questionnaire regarding the management of occupational hazards.
Read more: