Snow then Ash!
It does not seem that long ago since we were discussing what to do about employees who failed to arrive at work due to snow disruption. Now we have been grounded by clouds of volcanic ash!
The advice last time from Karen Grant was: “As our climate changes and snow, ice and flooding become less unusual, employers are being advised to devise and communicate a clear and consistent bad weather policy, or even include a clause addressing this issue in their contracts of employment.”
If you have not put in place an “emergency policy”, clarifying how to deal with absent employees, then most employers will consider one of the following options. The employee who was unable to work due to “being stranded” may be required either to take the time as leave, paid or unpaid, or to make up time missed – if this is possible. It is a very fortunate employee who will be paid in full.
As with all HR issues, consistency of approach is vital as is clear communication with the employees affected.