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 that explains how employees can work securely and productively from outside the company’s primary workplace. It defines rules, responsibilities, and procedures to safeguard operations and data when staff members work remotely.
This policy supports employees in understanding expectations—particularly regarding data security, proper use of company equipment, and compliance with internal processes. It also gives management a consistent framework for reviewing, approving, and overseeing remote work arrangements.
By clearly defining these guidelines, a Remote Working Policy helps U.S. organizations maintain productivity and regulatory compliance, creating a structured and safer approach to flexible work.
Why Remote Working Policies Are More Important Than Ever
Remote and hybrid working have become a permanent fixture in the U.S. workplace.
As of 2025, around 22–23% of U.S. employees work remotely at least part of the week, with approximately 13% fully remote and 26% hybrid (Sources: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2025, Global Statistics Report, 2025).
For U.S. organizations, a formal Remote Working Policy turns adhoc arrangements into a competitive advantage. It can help your business:
- Stay secure: Mandate the use of secure VPNs and multifactor authentication to protect against cyberattacks on home and public networks.
- Protect devices and data: Enforce standard device management and encryption practices to reduce the risk of loss or theft.
- Support compliance: Embed federal and state privacy laws, including the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and similar regulations, making data handling audit-ready.
- Clarify costs and expectations: Outline cost-sharing for home-office equipment and broadband, set clear rules for working hours and performance metrics, and standardize expense reimbursement procedures.
With today’s tight labour market—where remote roles help attract talent nationwide—this clarity not only shields businesses from legal and reputational risks but also strengthens their appeal to skilled professionals and supports long-term operational resilience.
While remote working offers flexibility and cost savings, it can also bring critical risks:
- Greater exposure to cyberthreats via unsecured networks
- Inconsistent application of policies across distributed teams
- Increased risk of data breaches or loss of company devices
- Potential non-compliance with U.S. data privacy laws (e.g., CCPA, state-specific regulations)
Without a clearly defined policy, organizations risk reputational harm, legal penalties, and operational disruptions. A well-structured Remote Working Policy is essential to manage these risks effectively.
Why This Matters for ISO Certification
Certification bodies expect organizations to have documented procedures for remote work, particularly in security sensitive industries.
Remote and hybrid arrangements introduce unique risks—such as data breaches, device loss, and reduced visibility—that ISO standards require you to identify, assess, and mitigate. Our Remote Working Policy template supports ISO aligned, risk-based thinking to manage these challenges effectively.
A formal policy also provides evidence of consistency, showing auditors that remote teams follow repeatable, well-controlled processes. This is critical during both ISO certification and recertification audits.
For organizations aiming to achieve or maintain ISO certifications, a Remote Working Policy supports compliance with:
- ISO 9001—Quality Management Systems
Supports consistent processes and performance management across distributed teams to maintain service quality. - ISO 27001—Information Security Management
Requires controls for secure remote access, device management, and protection of sensitive information. - ISO 45001—Occupational Health & Safety Management Systems
Requires measures to safeguard employee health and safety, including ergonomic considerations for home offices.
Whether your workforce is fully remote, hybrid, or occasionally offsite, a Remote Working Policy is essential for ISO compliance, audit readiness, and long-term operational resilience.
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Our practical template helps businesses strengthen their management systems and align with ISO requirements—whether you’re seeking certification for the first time or preparing for renewal.
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