Exceptional weather needs exceptional response from employers
HR professional body CIPD has said that large parts of the country are facing exceptional weather conditions this week and such a situation requires an exceptional response from employers.
Director of CIPD Mary Connaughton said the number one workplace priority for employers and their workers is safety.
“As such, we would expect to see employers facilitating remote working as much as possible – given the unpredictability of localised conditions,” Ms Connaughton said.
“Employers also need to ensure that the physical workplace is in a suitable condition for those working onsite, with adequate access to water, facilities and adequate heat,” she added.
She said the country’s collective experience in recent years means a significant number of employees in workplaces are set up to operate at least temporarily on a remote basis.
“This weather is the kind of scenario when that capability is invaluable,” she stated.
She said there will be some situations where remote working is not practical, and in these scenarios, she encourages employers to be as flexible and accommodating as possible.
“Some employers may consider giving access to annual or unpaid leave, if it’s appropriate to the circumstances,” she advised.
“Open communication and understanding go a long way towards managing a situation that can be challenging, but is expected to last a few days at most,” she added.
Article Source – Exceptional weather needs exceptional response from employers – CIPD – RTE
