Regulations for teleworking in Italy

Temática
Labor

Teleworkers have been recognized in Italian legislation since 1998. Since being incorporated in the law, new organizational methods have developed, like Smart Working.

Teleworking is understood to be work that takes place in any location outside of the workplace that is considered appropriate. It is made possible through the use of information and communication technologies.

Teleworking must be a decision made voluntarily by both the worker and the employer which, through mutual agreement, adjusts the work relationship by means of a teleworking contract.

Among the rights and responsibilities of teleworking it is necessary to highlight the following rules:

  • The employer must provide for the installation and maintenance of the tools needed for the worker to perform their duties.
  • All rights and responsibilities related to health and safety at work remain unchanged for both parties.
  • The employee manages the organization of their own work, respecting the schedules established by the company and its deadlines.
  • The worker is entitled to the same training as the company’s in-person workers, and additionally training specific to teleworking and its related tools.
  • The work performed by the teleworker can be monitored either electronically or by accessing the chosen workplace. If the office is in the employee’s home, they must give access to their employer.
  • Teleworkers have the same collective rights as in-person workers.

In 2017, the well-known Smart Working Law was passed. Despite often being confused with teleworking, they are not synonymous.

Smart Working is a type of remote work in which the employee works by cycles and objectives and without precise limits on the time or place of work.

Therefore, while the teleworker has to comply with the schedule established by the company, the smart worker has total organizational freedom over the time and execution of their work in order to achieve their objectives.

More information about the Law of June 16th, 1998, number 191.

More information about the Law of May 22nd, 2017, number 81.