What is a Right to Disconnect Policy?
The right to disconnect can be defined as the workers’ ability to refrain from engaging in work-related activities, including:
- E-mails
- Phone calls
- Video calls
- Text messages
These and other job-related activities may be limited during after-work hours if an organization adopts a right to disconnect policy. While these policies are not yet widely implemented, some governments have introduced laws relating to workers’ rights to disconnect, and organizations may consider reviewing what such policies could include.
Right to Disconnect laws in Ontario
At the end of 2021, the Ontario government introduced legislation related to the right to disconnect, which became effective in 2022. The law applies to organizations with more than 25 employees and includes provisions addressing how policies on disconnecting from work may be developed and shared with employees. Organizations may provide employees with information about these policies, including guidance on the intended purpose and implementation.
Why is the Right to Disconnect important?
When employees experience burnout or disengagement, work quality and motivation may decline. Implementing guidelines around disconnecting from work can help organizations foster employee wellbeing and maintain overall productivity.
How to encourage employees to disconnect
Beyond formal policies, organizations can consider the following strategies to support employees in disconnecting from work:
- Offering flexibility: Consider allowing employees to choose working hours or whether to work remotely or in the office. Flexible arrangements can help employees find routines that maximize productivity and job satisfaction.
- Leading by example: Managers can model disconnecting behaviours, such as avoiding late-night e-mails or respecting breaks, which encourages employees to follow suit.
- Having time-off policies: Flexible time-off policies, including personal or vacation days, can allow employees to take needed breaks without using standard vacation time, supporting work-life balance.
- Setting expectations and encouraging boundaries: Encouraging employees to prioritize tasks and communicate boundaries for non-urgent communications during off hours can also benefit their wellbeing.
- Engaging in team building: Strengthening team support networks may help employees feel less pressure to be constantly available and foster collaboration.
A Right to Disconnect policy may empower employees to protect their personal time, reduce burnout and enhance overall wellbeing and productivity. With proactive strategies, such as flexible schedules, leadership modelling and clear boundaries, you can foster healthier work cultures, boost engagement and build long-term resilience.
