The construction industry has traditionally been a hands-on endeavor. Unlike workers in other sectors such as banking, finance and education, construction contractors can’t make meaningful field observations, perform detailed inspections, take many measurements, or erect buildings over a telephone line or internet connection. But there are plenty of ways construction companies can do almost everything else remotely. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many construction businesses discovered that they could work successfully outside of centralized office environments. According to a 2021 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Business Response Survey of private businesses, construction companies increased their use of telework by over 15%. This is an impressive statistic given that the industry has a reputation – often exaggerated – as a slow adopter of technology. 

This course will discuss how construction companies can successfully incorporate remote work into their day-to-day operations.

After completing this course, students will be able to:

1.   Describe the positive and negative impacts of work-from-home or other remote working arrangements for employees of construction companies. 

2.    List issues to consider when making remote working arrangements, including what equipment and training employees will need and the responsibilities both parties must assume when it comes to securing sensitive information and safeguarding equipment. 

3.    Discuss which types of positions can successfully be shifted to remote work. 

4.    Explain what obligations a company has to remote workers under federal and state laws, including overtime compensation, workers’ compensation insurance and tax withholding, depending on where their employees live and work.