Thackray Williams

According to figures from the forum of Private Business, one day of snow-related absenteeism is likely to cost the UK economy £230 million. The calculation was made using information including the daily GDP figure, anticipated vehicle breakdown levels from the AA, average salaries and official data reflecting an expected fall in retail sales. 
With this in mind many employers are concerned about the impact this winter’s weather will have on their business. So what can employers do to avoid employees taking advantage?
Employers need to be clear, consistent and transparent when communicating their policy on bad weather and unauthorised absence to employees. They also have a duty of care to their staff and if severe weather warnings are forecast, consideration should be given to the health and safety implications of travel to and from work.

If it is not possible for an employer to make arrangements for employees to work from home, the next best option is to require employees to take a day’s annual leave. This should be communicated effectively to all employees and usually has the desired affect; most employees finding a means of getting into work.

Another option is to deduct pay from wages. However, employees have statutory protection against an unauthorised deduction being made from their wages, so if you do not have a contractual right to deduct pay and if the employee does not consent, this could give rise to a legal dispute.

If you think an employee is taking advantage of the bad weather, then you might contemplate disciplinary action. Employers should remember that this must involve complying with the minimum statutory procedure and to ensure consistency between employees.

For more information email: emma.thompson@thackraywilliams.com