Important to have bad weather policies in place as winter takes a grip

Predicting the weather is always tricky! Do you remember when TV weatherman Michael Fish failed to predict the Great Storm of 1987?

We have already been experiencing some cold weather and have even had some snow. So we're now in the middle of winter, and who knows if we'll have another “Beast from the East”?

About this time last year, a number of businesses in Lynn, including some of our clients at Human Capital Department, were caught out as they did not have a bad weather policy.

The snow and ice hit suddenly, and it was extremely difficult to get to work. Without a clear policy staff and managers were not sure what to do. Should they battle the elements and try to get into work no matter what, or was it OK to arrive late and finish early or to take a day off as annual leave, or even work from home during the bleakest days?

As a business, it is important to let staff know what the rules and expectations are in all events, including if bad weather should hit. People should know what the rules and expectations are ahead of time, and the business can plan accordingly, rather than being caught in a verbal snowball fight of staff and manager uncertainty.

Typically, a policy will include a statement of intent, employees’ responsibilities, the practical steps they need to take – for example to advise their manager – and the level of line manager’s discretion.

Has your employer got a #BadWeatherPolicy in place to let staff know what to do if the bad weather hits? We have a free template and example policy, which I’m happy to share – drop me an email: peter.lawrence@humancapitaldept.com or give me a ring on 01553 609968 for a copy. In the meantime wrap up warm!