Support secure and compliant remote working with our free downloadable Remote Working Policy template.
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What is a Remote Working Policy?
A Remote Working Policy is a formal document outlining how employees can work securely and productively from locations outside the company’s physical premises. It defines rules, responsibilities, and procedures to protect operations and data when staff work remotely.
This policy ensures employees know what’s expected of them, particularly regarding data protection, proper use of company equipment, and adherence to internal processes. It also gives management a consistent framework for reviewing, approving, and monitoring remote work arrangements.
By clearly defining these expectations, a Remote Working Policy helps Irish organisations maintain both productivity and compliance, creating a structured and safer approach to flexible working.
Why Remote Working Policies Are More Important Than Ever
Remote and hybrid working have become a permanent part of how Irish businesses operate, supported by the government’s evolving guidance and a formal right to request remote work policy.
As of early 2024, 37% of employees in Ireland regularly worked remotely, with 13% fully remote and 24% in hybrid setups (Source: Central Statistics Office, 2024).
By putting safeguards into a formal policy, Irish businesses can turn remote work from a risky ad hoc arrangement into a reliable, standardised way of operating. A well-written policy outlines who is responsible for securing home networks, how company devices must be configured and maintained, and exactly where sensitive data may be stored or shared.
It also sets clear expectations for working hours, performance measures, and expense reimbursements, so no one is left guessing what is permitted or reimbursable.
Crucially, embedding GDPR compliance and domestic employment law requirements into everyday remote working practices means organisations can demonstrate compliance at audit time and avoid hefty fines.
In this way, a Remote Working Policy not only protects the company and its people but also sends a strong message that flexibility and security can go hand in hand, helping Irish employers compete for talent while maintaining operational resilience.
While remote working offers flexibility and potential cost savings, it can also bring critical risks:
- Increased exposure to cyber threats via unsecured networks
- Inconsistent application of policies across remote teams
- Greater potential for data breaches or loss of company devices
- Risk of non-compliance with Irish data protection and employment laws
Without a clearly defined policy, businesses risk reputational damage, regulatory penalties, and operational disruption. A structured Remote Working Policy is essential for mitigating these risks.
Why This Matters for ISO Certification
ISO auditors expect documented remote working procedures, especially within security-sensitive contexts.
Remote setups introduce unique risks that must be identified and managed, our template helps demonstrate risk-based thinking aligned with ISO principles.
A written policy provides evidence of consistent and repeatable practices, crucial for certification audits and ISO renewals.
For organisations aiming to achieve or maintain ISO certifications, a Remote Working Policy supports the following standards:
- ISO 9001 – Quality Management Systems: Supports consistent processes and performance management for remote teams, ensuring service quality is maintained.
- ISO 22301 – Business Continuity Management: Ensures continuity planning includes remote working capabilities to maintain operations during disruptions.
- ISO 27001 – Information Security Management: Requires controls for secure remote access, device management, and data protection to reduce cyber risks.
- ISO 45001 – Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems: Requires measures to protect employee health and safety, including ergonomic and risk assessments for home offices.
Whether your team works remotely full-time, part-time, or occasionally, a Remote Working Policy is vital to compliance and organisational resilience.
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Our practical template supports businesses in enhancing their management systems for ISO alignment, whether you’re pursuing certification for the first time or preparing for recertification.
Download it for free today.
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