The agreement aims to give the 4.5 million teleworkers employed in the EU more security, whilst maintaining business flexibility. It also recognises that teleworkers should be afforded the general protection granted to workers based on the employer’s premises.
The agreement defines teleworkers as:
Seven key areas are highlighted in the agreement where the specific needs of teleworking should be taken into account: data protection, privacy, equipment, health and safety, organisation of work, training and collective rights issues. The implementation of the agreement will be reported by member organisations. A European report will be prepared within four years of the signing.