Don’t panic about employees’ right to switch off, say HR experts

Businesses are being urged not to panic about proposed Right to Switch off rules, after headlines claimed they could land employers in hot water.

The planned change is part of a swathe of employment law proposals, from the new Government. It is aimed at restricting employers from contacting staff out of their contracted working hours, giving them the right to ‘switch off’.

However, claims have been made that employers breaking a Right to Switch off code of practice could face hefty fines, if they end up in an employment tribunal.

Employment experts at the HR Dept in Swindon said while there is still uncertainty over how the Right to Switch Off rules will work, similar schemes are in place in other countries, including France and Ireland.

Peter Jones heads up the HR Dept Swindon, North Wiltshire and East Cotswolds, and its sister company which covers London. He said evidence points to higher productivity levels among employees who have full rest periods, away from work.

“In principle, Right to Switch Off is a good idea as there is evidence to suggest people who have the appropriate downtime increase their productivity,” he said.

“In reality, how this will be monitored and administered could be complex. Will the Right to Switch off apply only to being asked to perform work, or will it also apply to all work-related queries? We are looking to the Government to provide more detail on what this will look like in practice. Some sectors may need more flexibility.”

Peter said he anticipated the Right to Switch Off would comprise a code of practice, developed between employers and their employees.

“If it encourages employers and employees to discuss the issue and come to an agreement on what is reasonable, that’s a positive move. Our message is that there is no need to panic, there will be some guidance coming out and we will be able to help business owners and managers navigate their way through.”

For support with the Right to Switch Off rules, or more information about the HR Dept Swindon, North Wiltshire and East Cotswolds, visit https://www.hrdept.co.uk/swindon-north-wiltshire-east-cotswolds/, email [email protected] or call 01793 683 398.