Remote Work and Flexible Hours Policy Free Template
A formal policy outlining the standards, expectations, and eligibility for remote work arrangements and flexible working hours.
Published on June 18, 2025
Template
1. Policy Purpose
The purpose of this Remote Work and Flexible Hours Policy ("Policy") is to provide clear guidelines regarding remote work and flexible scheduling arrangements at [Company Name] ("the Company"). This policy is intended to promote flexibility, increase employee satisfaction, support business continuity, and ensure that work performed remotely or outside traditional hours meets company standards for quality, security, and accountability.
2. Scope
This Policy applies to:
- All eligible employees of the Company, including full-time, part-time, and fixed-term staff
- Managers who oversee remote and flexible workers
- Contractors or consultants where permitted under agreement
This Policy applies to both fully remote and hybrid arrangements, as well as employees utilizing non-traditional schedules such as staggered hours, compressed workweeks, or job-sharing.
3. Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility for remote or flexible work arrangements is based on:
- Job function and suitability for remote work
- Performance history and ability to work independently
- Team and operational requirements
- Availability of appropriate equipment and internet access
Approval must be obtained from the employee’s direct manager and documented by HR. Not all roles may qualify for these arrangements.
4. Work Environment Requirements
Employees approved for remote work must:
- Maintain a safe, secure, and quiet work environment
- Ensure reliable high-speed internet access
- Use company-approved hardware and software
- Protect company property and data while offsite
Home office setup may be subject to inspection or validation by the IT or HR departments. [Company Name] may provide stipends or equipment support subject to availability and policy.
5. Work Schedule and Availability
Flexible work hours must be structured to ensure:
- Completion of core job responsibilities
- Reasonable alignment with team collaboration and meeting times
- Adherence to minimum required hours or deliverables
- Clear communication of availability via calendar tools or status indicators
Employees must notify their manager in advance of schedule changes or planned absences. Managers may require fixed hours for roles that depend on client interaction or coordination with other departments.
6. Communication and Collaboration
Remote and flexible employees are expected to:
- Be responsive during agreed-upon working hours
- Attend virtual meetings punctually and professionally
- Keep calendars up to date
- Use company-approved tools (e.g., Slack, Teams, Zoom, Asana) for coordination
Managers must ensure regular check-ins and performance reviews continue uninterrupted.
7. Performance Management
Remote status does not change performance expectations. Managers are responsible for:
- Setting measurable goals and deliverables
- Providing timely feedback and support
- Addressing performance issues consistently with on-site staff
Employees must:
- Deliver high-quality work on time
- Track progress using agreed project or time-tracking tools
- Flag obstacles or delays proactively
8. Data Security and Confidentiality
Remote work must comply with all IT and data protection policies. Employees must:
- Use company VPN and secure networks
- Refrain from using public Wi-Fi without encryption
- Store documents only in company-authorized systems
- Lock screens when away and safeguard credentials
Report suspected security incidents to [IT/Security Contact] immediately.
9. Equipment and Expenses
The Company will provide standard equipment such as:
- Laptops and accessories
- Licensed software
- Access to cloud systems and secure communications
Employees are responsible for:
- Maintenance of personal equipment used for work
- Utility or internet costs unless specified otherwise
Reimbursements must be approved in advance and comply with the Company’s expense policy.
10. Health and Safety
Remote workers are responsible for maintaining ergonomic and safe workspaces. [Company Name] will:
- Provide remote work safety guidelines
- Require employees to report injuries or accidents while working remotely
- Conduct periodic remote safety assessments where necessary
Employees must:
- Take scheduled breaks
- Report any unsafe conditions to HR
11. Compliance and Revocation
Any abuse of remote or flexible work privileges may result in:
- Revocation of remote/flex privileges
- Disciplinary action under the Employee Handbook
Managers may modify or revoke arrangements due to performance issues, operational needs, or policy violations. Emergency exceptions may apply during natural disasters, public health emergencies, or company directives.
12. Policy Review and Updates
This Policy is subject to periodic review by HR and management. Updates will be communicated in writing. Employees must acknowledge receipt and understanding of changes.
13. Acknowledgment
By signing below, I confirm that I have read and understood the Remote Work and Flexible Hours Policy and agree to comply with its terms.
Employee Name: __________________________
Signature: ________________________________
Date: ______________________
Department: ____________________________