A new warning has been issued by Acas in view of the bad weather conditions in December that will affect the functioning of firms in UK. Acas has cautioned all firms to take adequate steps to tackle work concerns that would start showing up in the coming month, despite the cold in November being quite mild since 300 years.
Acas released its guidance surrounding the bad weather conditions and illnesses that would deter employees from attending their workplace and suggested firms on how to tackle them. It pointed to how the heavy snow last year resulted in quite a large number of employees not attending their workplace due to difficulty in commutation. Hence it has advised firms to have clear guidelines in place and also convey the same to their staff members on how much work is needed to be done and at what pace. Staff members must be informed beforehand that absence at work due to cold or adverse climatic conditions will be seen as an unpaid leave and not liable to any compensation. If conceivable, firms can arrange for flexible working hours on a temporary basis that will aid firms as well as employees to continue working. Work from home option with the help of information technology can also be used by firms to carry on with their business. However, whatever plans the firms opt to make, it is necessary that they strategize beforehand and communicate it to their employees, to avoid any confusions and conflicts thereafter.
Acas also reminded firms about employees remaining absent from work due to increased illnesses like influenza and colds due to chilly weather.
Adrian Wakeling, Acas Guidance Editor stated that the chilly weather during the winter season disrupts the normal business of firms, particularly due to employee unavailability. This is mainly due to transport trouble resulting from bad weather and yearly winter revelries, which lead to many employees taking leave from work.
Mr Wakeling stated that since all firms are aware of what will transpire, it is better to plan beforehand. Acas would suggest firms to be prepared by having clear rules about matters like work and leaves and convey about it to their employees earlier.
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