The right to disconnect. The parties agree that the use of digital tools to manage work organisation can lead to the risk of being contacted too frequently. Management will respect employees’ work patterns, ensuring that meetings and all contact occur within working hours. Employees must not be contacted via email or other work communication tools during breaks, weekends or during leave. Employees are under no obligation to respond during these periods and they will not be penalised for this. Line management will ensure that this right is respected by setting a positive example.
The right to disconnect. An employee’s time outside working hours is meant for employees to recharge and spend time as they wish and should not be used to complete work-related tasks; however, there may be a lack of separation between home and work that makes it difficult for employees to truly disconnect. Employees have the right to disconnect from their job and any work- related tasks or communication outside of working hours without fear of reprisal. Employees must also be respectful of others’ right to disconnect and should not expect their co-workers to respond, communicate, or complete work when not working.
