Promotional Feature
We may not have had the widespread flooding of last winter (yet!), but there has still been plenty of unpleasant weather to disrupt British businesses. In previous winters it has been suggested that extreme weather costs the UK economy a staggering £500 million a day. So what can companies do to reduce the impact?
The HR Dept Wilmslow emphasises that knowing your employment law is key, and then communicating clearly with staff so they know what is expected of them.
Emma Fay of The HR Dept Wilmslow says: "The law is actually quite accommodating to employers. There is no obligation to pay someone if they do not show up to work because of severe weather. But try to be reasonable, you don't want employee relations frozen too! So if people are late, could they make up the time rather than be penalised?"
Emma continues: "If you know that snow is going to strike or flooding is forecast, don't shy away from reminding staff that it remains their responsibility to attend work on time. Of course, no employee should expose themselves to undue danger to get to work. But if you believe someone falsely claims they are snowed-in only to go posting snowman selfies on Facebook then it may be appropriate to bring disciplinary action against them."
One exception to employees' responsibilities towards their company is when schools and nurseries are closed due to inclement weather. In this case parents are entitled to take time off to care for dependants, although companies have no obligation to pay them.
Emma adds: "The employer has responsibilities too, of course. They should ensure that the work environment remains safe. Pathways may need gritting, appropriate work wear should be provided, as well as adequate heating. If the temperature drops below 16 degrees Celsius (or 13 degrees Celsius for more exerting roles) staff are entitled to go home with full pay!"
It's clear that bad weather is generally bad news for all concerned. The HR Dept Wilmslow can help local small and medium sized companies add silver linings to those dark clouds!
HR Dept Wilmslow
Tel: 01625460694
Mob: 07804914915
Email: [email protected].
