Remote work arrangements during COVID-19

The use of UBC supplied and owned computers/laptops is preferred for a temporary work arrangements. This may take the form of laptops permanently assigned to an employee as their work computer, a laptop from a pool of departmental laptops that is returned when not in use, or a UBC computer taken home and left at home. It is also possible to use your home personal computer. If you use your home personal computer and you need to upgrade your security or other systems this will be at your own expense unless the department agrees otherwise.

When working remotely, employees should reference the Information Security Standard #06 for guidance on keeping information safe off-site and should only connect to the Virtual Private Network (VPN) when working on resources that require a VPN connection.

Employees approved for a temporary remote work arrangement are responsible for providing a suitable off-site workspace at their own expense. Please refer to the Guidelines for Telecommuting – Temporary Work from Home Arrangements – COVID-19 above for important requirements around workspace, equipment, and protection of proprietary information while working off-campus. 

No, employees are not able to access Professional Development Funds to set up their remote workspace office. Employees with a temporary remote work arrangement are responsible for maintaining a suitable and secure off-site workspace at their own expense. Furniture is not an eligible expense under any of UBC PD funds.

However, many other professional development expenses are eligible and the details can be found online. Visit the Staff PD Funds page or the Faculty PD Funds page for more information.

The Public Health Agency of Canada continues to assess the public health risk associated with the virus. Anyone who is unable to work remotely should come to work as normal. Please speak with your manager/supervisor, and refer to the Guidelines for Telecommuting – Temporary Work from Home Arrangements – COVID-19 above for guidance.