Gas prices alter work environment

Gas prices are forcing workers to consider carpooling, working from home and other tactics to avoid costly commutes, according to a new study developed by staffing firm Robert Half International.  

In a survey of 539 U.S. workers, 44% of respondents said higher gas prices have affected their commutes, up from 34% two years ago when a similar survey was conducted.

Increased carpooling or ridesharing are the most common change respondents are making, cited by 44% of those respondents who have altered their work arrangements. One-third said they are driving a more fuel-efficient vehicle. In addition, 33% said they are telecommuting more frequently.

Other commuting changes people are making as a result of higher gas prices include: looking for a new job closer to home (30%), working from office locations closer to home (29%), working fewer days of the week (26%), asking for increased compensation (25%), taking public transportation more frequently (23%), and walking or biking to work (18%).

Employees aren't the only ones making changes. To offset the cost of commuting, 18% of companies have increased their mileage reimbursement for travel; 17% are implementing ridesharing or vanpooling services; and 11% are offering telecommuting.

"Employers may be missing an opportunity to improve morale and reduce turnover by helping their staff cope with the burden of rising gas prices. Often, it can be as simple as communicating to employees what programs are already in place," said Max Messmer, chairman and CEO of Robert Half International, in a statement. "Companies can build loyalty and motivation by showing employees that they are empathetic to their concerns during challenging times."

The staffing firm asked the 56% of respondents who said their commutes have not been affected by rising gas prices just how much more per-gallon gas prices would have to rise before impacting their work arrangements. The mean response was $1.14, according to the survey.