8-16. Future Working Environment and EHS - Issues after the Spread of Telework

The spread of teleworking has spread rapidly, driven by work style reforms and pandemic responses, and is significantly changing the future working environment. At the same time, new challenges have emerged from the perspective of EHS (environment, health, and safety), forcing companies to reconsider management practices based on the traditional workplace.

First, in terms of safety, because work environments at home and in third places are not standardized, there are concerns about health hazards due to long working hours and improper working postures. Back pain, eye strain, and mental health problems are particularly notable risks unique to teleworking. It is important for EHS departments to develop ergonomic guidelines and self-checklists for teleworking and support employee self-management.

Next, in terms of health, increased feelings of loneliness and stress can have a serious impact on mental health. A lack of face-to-face communication can easily lead to a decline in teamwork and delays in early detection of illness, so it is necessary for EHS departments to implement regular online interviews and well-being measures.

From an environmental perspective, while energy use in offices is decreasing, electricity consumption at home and use of ICT devices are increasing, resulting in new structural changes in carbon footprints. Companies need to understand the environmental impact of employees working from home as Scope 3 emissions, and consider monitoring and reduction measures as part of their decarbonization efforts.

Furthermore, existing legal systems, such as the Industrial Safety and Health Act and the Workers' Accident Compensation Insurance System, are designed for offices and factories, so it is essential that companies develop systems to accommodate the spread of telework and take complementary measures. EHS personnel must keep a close eye on regulatory trends while creating their own company-specific rules and strengthening employee education.

Overall, while the spread of teleworking has enabled flexible working styles, it has also complicated EHS issues. In the future work environment, building a new EHS strategy that comprehensively considers health management, psychological safety, reducing environmental impact, and legal compliance is essential to achieving both sustainable corporate growth and improving employee happiness.