Technology is an integral and often indispensable part our lives. However, it can also be an intrusive part, especially where the workplace is concerned. Many employers and bosses contact employees outside working hours. This means staff can never entirely switch from work. The government Portugal has taken steps to limit this incursion the lives workers. It has introduced a law that prohibits employers and bosses contacting workers email, message or phone outside working hours. The law applies to companies with more than 10 employees. It states that any violation constitutes a "serious offense" and could result financial penalties.
The Portuguese government has introduced the new privacy law receiving a deluge complaints the coronavirus lockdowns. An increasing number employees are now working home remotely because of COVID-19. The research company Gartner estimated that remote workers will nearly double to represent 32 per cent the global workforce the end of 2021, compared to 17 per cent 2019. Portugal's government said: "The employer must respect the privacy of the worker." The new law also requires employers to provide employees with the appropriate tools to work home, and reimburse them with any costs incurred to assist increased energy bills.
