Telecommuting Information for Employees

In light of recent hazardous emergencies within our region, the DC Department of Human Resources (DCHR) joins Mayor Vincent Gray in efforts to better prepare the District for emergencies.

DCHR partnered with other agencies to enhance the District’s Telecommuting program to serve as an effective tool for continuing operations in the event of a declared emergency. Enhanced features of the program include the early selection of a Telecommuting Coordinator for each agency, the identification of various options to work from remote locations, and a revised Telecommuting Guide.

Telecommuting Overview

The objective of District’s enhanced Telecommuting Program is to allow eligible, participating employees to work at alternative worksites on a regularly scheduled basis or during an emergency based on the needs of the agency or its department(s) and, to the maximum extent possible, without diminishing employees’ performance.

In addition to being a valuable tool for continuity of operations during natural or man-made emergencies, the Telecommuting Program may serve as a recruitment and retention tool, help participants balance their home and work lives, and improve employee productivity and morale.

How Do I Telecommute?

First, your agency head must designate you as emergency personnel or approve you to telecommute. You are then required to complete the telecommuting application and participate in telecommuting training. After signing the telecommuting agreement, you are ready to telework.

Telecommuting program participants may be given a laptop and/or remote access to work from home or an alternative work site. 

Telecommuting employees must comply with all security and confidential measures in place for non-telecommuting employees.

For additional information on Telecommuting, including forms and frequently asked questions, please visit the Intranet Telecommuting site. [Telecommuting Information Center]