Telework in Canada: Who Is Working from Home during the COVID-19 Pandemic?

ABSTRACT

This study focuses on the demographic and human capital characteristics of Canadians that are associated with working from home (WFH), before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, or being absent from work, versus those Canadians who continue to work outside the home (i.e., who do not WFH). The results show significant differences in the incidence of WFH during the pandemic 1) there are no significant differences between females and mates;2) immigrants are less likely to WFH;3) younger workers are more likely to WFH;4) education is positively associated with WFH;and 5) self-reported health is unrelated to WFH. The results from this natural experiment suggest potential policy and organizational implications if the pandemic WFH environment continues for an extended period of time.