Equipment & Workspace

Standard Work Equipment

The University may provide employees with office supplies and/or equipment to support remote work arrangements as management deems appropriate to ensure that operational needs of the work unit can be met. This equipment is expected to be returned to AppState upon separation from the university. See ITS-Teleworking Resources for more information regarding remote work computing expectations. Employees working remotely will continue to be in their department/unit’s established computing equipment replacement cycle.

Office Furniture

As a rule, employees are responsible for procuring their own office furniture for their remote workstation unless exceptions are otherwise authorized. Exceptions may be provided for furniture already purchased as part of an ADA reasonable accommodation for an employee. All items authorized for off-site use by an employee must be inventoried.

Reimbursement for any out-of-pocket expenses incurred by an employee under a remote work arrangement requires prior approval by the supervisor.

Workplace Safety

Maintaining a safe alternate work location is the teleworker’s responsibility. The employee agrees to review and check each of the safety items below if their work agreement includes remote work and attests:

that the furniture, equipment, and other materials supplied by the employee or university for their alternate worksite is in compliance with established safety requirements, is free from hazards, and is ergonomically appropriate;
that the employee will provide written notice to their supervisor prior to any change in location or condition of their alternate worksite;
that the employee will use the same safety rules and practices applicable to their on-site workspace when at the alternate worksite;
that the employee will follow the usual university procedures for immediate reporting of work-related illness or injury occurring at their alternate worksite.

Appalachian State University's liability for job-related accidents continues during the employee's approved remote work hours and approved work location. Questions regarding any safety item should be directed to the employee’s manager.

Physical Workspace

Floor, walkways, aisle(s), and doorway(s) are clear.
Flooring is securely attached to floor and free of frayed or worn seams, and any small rugs and runners are slip-resistant.
Furniture is stable and free of defects such as splintered wood or sharp edges that could compromise safety.
Phone lines, cables, electrical cords, and other trip hazards are placed away from heat sources and foot traffic.
File cabinets, bookcases, etc. do not present a tipping hazard.
Alternate work location is kept free of trash, clutter, and flammable liquids.
Adequate temperature control and ventilation are present.
First Aid supplies are readily available and emergency phone numbers are readily available and stored in cell phone

Electrical Safety

Electrical system is adequate for office equipment, and equipment is turned off when not in use.
Sufficient electrical outlets are accessible and close to equipment so that extension cords are not needed.
Computer/electrical equipment is plugged into a surge protector, which is plugged directly into wall outlet(s).
Electrical plugs, cords, outlets, and panels are in visibly good condition, and cords are not under rugs, carpeting, or furniture.

Ergonomics/Wellness

Lighting is sufficient for reading or working on the computer and minimizes glare.
Chair is sturdy, free from safety defects, and seat/backrest are supportive and adjustable to comfortable upright position.
Chair seat adjustable to comfortable upright position to allow seating with feet flat on ground and thighs parallel to floor.
Keyboard at elbow height, and hands, wrists, and forearms are in straight line parallel to floor.
Keyboard and mouse are situated at elbow level to eliminate reaching and allow wrist to be in straight, natural position.
Height of work surface accommodates employee and does not contact top of employee’s legs.
Topmost line of monitor screen is slightly below eye level. Monitor height set so head tilting is not required for full viewing.
Work station, chair, and other equipment are positioned ergonomically correct and are comfortable for the employee’s use.

Information Safety/Security

Adherence to State of North Carolina and university/work unit Acceptable Use Policy and IT security policies.
Log off from computer when not present and ensure files and data are securely stored, including confidential paper files.
Timely installation of IT updates to all university/work unit assigned equipment.
Inventory of all equipment including serial numbers is maintained.

Fire/Emergency Safety

Attend to severe weather alerts and identify safe shelter locations for evacuation in event of a severe weather threat.
Maintain contingency plan to work elsewhere in event of power outage.
Maintain primary and alternate evacuation plans for emergency exit in event of a fire.
Working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and a multi-use fire extinguisher that employee can use, are present.
All radiators and portable heat source(s) are located away from combustible and flammable items.
Staircases that must be travelled while working are well lit, free from obstruction, and allow for secure footing on each step.

Office of Human Resources