I am very happy that the Sejm adopted the amendment to the Labour Code prepared by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, which permanently introduces the possibility of performing remote work. This solution worked perfectly during the pandemic, as unanimously confirmed by employers’ organisations which had come to us with a demand to regulate remote work by law. I am convinced that the new regulations will be a great facilitation, inter alia, for persons with disabilities and parents who want to combine raising children with professional work – says the Minister of Family and Social Policy, Marlena Maląg.

The amendments to the Labour Code adopted on Thursday have been developed following numerous consultations with society and employers.

Key amendments to the Labour Code

According to the amendment, remote work will be the work performed in whole or partially in a place indicated by an employee and from time to time agreed with an employer, including at the employee’s address of residence, in particular using the means of direct distance communication. Details in this respect will be agreed upon conclusion of a contract of employment or already during employment, without the need to confirm it in writing.

As a rule, the employer will not be able to refuse remote work, inter alia, to pregnant women, parents who raise children below 4 and persons taking care of a disabled family member.

The employer will be obliged to provide the employee performing remote work with materials and tools, including technical devices. It will also cover the costs of electricity and telecommunications services necessary to perform remote work.

The amendment to the Labour Code also governs the rules for employers to carry out preventive sobriety checks of employees. Pursuant to the adopted regulations, such a check will be carried out if it is necessary to ensure the protection of life and health of employees or other persons or the protection of property. To this end, the employer will be able to use a breathalyser or a drug test.