In light of the bad weather experienced across the country last week, Acas has highlighted its guidance on workers’ rights if they were delayed or were unable to get to their workplace.
It reminds workers that there is no automatic legal right to be paid for working time they have missed because of travel disruption or bad weather. However, many workplace policies have special arrangements in place that cover this eventuality. Some employers may also choose to make discretionary or informal arrangements when employees are unable to get to work due to travel disruption.
In cases where employer-provided transport is cancelled because of bad weather or travel disruption, and a worker was otherwise ready, willing and available to work, the worker should be paid for any working time they have missed.
In other circumstances, where an employer chooses to close the workplace or an employee is unable to attend due to emergency situations with dependents – ie school closures. Other pay arrangements may apply.
Where an employer makes alternative working arrangements, be it working from a different location, altering working hours, working from home etc. Acas reminds employers that whatever options are decided on, they should keep in communication with their workers and be flexible, fair and consistent.
For more details on whether employees are entitled to pay, see the Acas article here.
