Storm Austen Update: Being Prepared for Business Disruption Due to Adverse Weather

As the first storm of the winter season approaches, Organisations are being reminded of the importance of preparing for adverse weather and the potential disruption it can cause. With Storm Austen bringing the risk of high winds and heavy rain, difficult conditions may affect business operations, travel arrangements and Employees’ ability to attend work safely.

This is an opportune time for Organisations to review their existing Adverse Weather and Business Disruption Policies or, where no policy is in place, consider implementing one ahead of further winter weather events.

An effective policy should provide clear guidance on how adverse weather situations will be managed, including circumstances where Employees cannot safely travel to work or where the Organisation is unable to operate as normal due to weather-related disruption.

Key considerations include Employee health and safety, the treatment of weather-related absences, pay arrangements where Employees cannot attend work, and alternative working arrangements where feasible.

Every situation will be different, and Organisations should take a reasonable, practical approach, with Employee safety remaining the priority where severe weather presents a risk.

The first storm of the season is a timely reminder to plan ahead. Having clear procedures in place can help Organisations protect Employees, meet their duty-of-care responsibilities, maintain business continuity where possible and ensure adverse weather-related absences are managed fairly and consistently.

Contact us today for expert HR support with reviewing or implementing workplace policies.