Bad weather, such as snow, ice or storms, can make travelling to the office considerably more difficult. But what can your employer expect of you in such situations? Is working from home an option? What if you find the risk too great? In this blog, you can read all about your rights and obligations as an employee.
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Bad weather: always to the office?
As an employee, you are, in principle, expected to turn up for work on time, regardless of the weather conditions. However, there may be times when your employer cannot require you to come to work, such as in the event of extremely bad weather that makes the journey unsafe.
- Reasonableness and fairness: Your employer must not make unreasonable demands. In the event of extremely bad weather, which makes travelling genuinely unsafe, you can cite the unsafe conditions as a reason for not going to work.
- Force majeure: When public transport comes to a standstill and this makes travel impossible, this is often considered a case of force majeure. Your employer cannot then hold you responsible for failing to arrive on time.
It is important to assess the situation carefully and discuss the options – or lack thereof – with your employer.
Can you make staff work from home in bad weather?
The pandemic has led to an increase in working from home. However, you cannot simply be forced to work from home unless specific arrangements have been made. According to an article by DAS, your employer may refuse to allow you to work from home if your presence in the office is essential, for example due to physical tasks or meetings that cannot take place online.
Important tips:
- Check your employment contract: Check whether working from home in bad weather is explicitly stated in your contract or company policy.
- Discuss with your employer Discuss in good time whether working from home is an option. Many employers will cooperate in reasonable situations.
- Proactive action In the event of bad weather, let your employer know in good time that you expect to have difficulties travelling, and suggest working from home or a flexible working schedule.
You can find more information on this in the DAS article: Snow on the way: can you force working from home?.
What should you do in bad weather?
If travelling is difficult or risky, there are a few steps you can take:
- Assess your situation: See traffic information via the ANWB and weather warnings from the KNMI and see how safe it is for you to travel to work. You can find more information about weather warnings at the KNMI
- Talk to your employer: Discuss your concerns and propose alternatives, such as working from home or taking a day off.
- Check your collective labour agreement: Some collective labour agreements contain provisions regarding working from home or flexible working hours in exceptional circumstances.
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Practical tips for employees
- Plan ahead: Don’t wait until the last minute. Keep a close eye on weather forecasts and traffic updates.
- Be transparent: Explain your situation to your employer and suggest a workable solution.
- Check alternatives: Consider options such as public transport, carpooling, working from home, or travelling at a different time.
How De Unie can help
Are you in a dispute with your employer about travelling in bad weather? Or would you like to know what your rights are? De Unie offers legal advice and practical support. Please contact us via 0345 851 963 of sc@unie.nl. Become a member today and stand stronger in your work!
