DPA Telework Policy

Responsibilities

Division Chiefs

1. Administer the telework program in their respective divisions, including ensuring compliance with all applicable policies and procedures; identifying positions suitable for the telework option, and determining whether the department should provide equipment and software on a case by case basis. Software may in some instances be approved, when the division chief approves the purchase of the necessary licenses.

Unless there are extreme mitigating circumstances, the department will not provide equipment and software when a similarly equipped workstation is maintained at the office for the employee seeking a telework option. Provision of equipment for a teleworker will normally be an exceptional situation in which the division chief determines a clear benefit to the program and the employee has special needs.

Managers and Supervisors

1. Determine if proposals for their employees to telework are likely to contribute to DPA's objectives, while maintaining or improving program objectives, efficiency, productivity, service, benefits, and safety conditions;
2. Ensure that employees who remain in the office are not burdened by being required to handle the teleworker's regular assignments (i.e., answering telephone calls, dispensing information, etc.);
3. Through the use of Work Assignment Logs or other tracking tools, provide specific, measurable, and attainable performance expectations for the teleworker; define in detail, assignments, corresponding deadlines, and the quality of the work expected;
4. Provide for employee training in the use of equipment and software as required for the employee to function effectively and independently;
5. Inform employees that failure to comply with the policy and procedures may cause for terminating participation in the program and/or possible adverse action;
6. Maintain copies of signed Employee's Safety Checklist, Supervisor's Checklist, Telework Agreement, and Telework Assignment Logs;
7. Obtain division chief approval.

Teleworkers

1. When telework is determined to be a viable work option, employees must work with their supervisor to develop and follow an acceptable Telework Agreement and Telework Assignment Logs;
2. Abide by the provisions set forth in this DPA Telework Program Policy and document;
3. Adhere to all applicable laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures regarding information security as outlined below in "Information Security";
4. Acquire the skills necessary to meet department requirements and operate independently from a telework site;
5. Establish and maintain an acceptable and safe home office environment as outlined in "Work Environment Criteria" and "Setting up a Home Office" outlined below. (Employees are required to complete the "Safety Checklist" and certify to its accuracy annually when the Telework Agreement is renewed.);
6. Establish, operate and maintain the home office, equipment, devices, and services associated with the telework arrangement;
7. Comply with tax laws. (DPA is not responsible for substantiating a teleworker's claim of tax deductions for operation of a home office used to perform State work. Employees should seek advice from a tax advisor concerning home office deductions.)

Personnel Office

1. Assist DPA employees and management in understanding the Telework Policy and Procedures;
2. Maintain and update DPA's Telework Policy and Procedures as needed.

Updated July 21, 2008 at 11:04 AM.