One day of snow-related absenteeism is likely to cost the UK economy £230 million, according to figures from the Forum of Private Business. Although many of these will be unavoidable, some workers are using the weather to extend their Christmas break, citing car problems or inaccessible side roads when they could make it into the office using public transport.
Judith Watson, head of employment at Cobbetts (pictured), said: "Of course, employers shouldn't make their employees come into work if conditions are treacherous. But in a minority of cases, employees may see the snow as a good excuse for a day off when they would face no real difficulties in making their commute.
"Employers need to communicate the company's policy on bad weather and on unauthorised absence, and make it known that the situation is being monitored. Public transport companies are doing well in keeping users up to date, and many are running relatively normal services, despite the snow. If you find that workers are taking the day off unnecessarily, you are within your rights to take disciplinary action.
"Businesses without a clear unauthorised absence policy should work to put one in place as early as possible. It may be too late for this snowstorm, but being prepared will save valuable time and money when the next emergency hits."
Employers warned: Don't let snow become an excuse for a staff duvet day
With further snow storms expected over the coming weeks, employers have been urged to beware of employees using the snow as an excuse for a duvet day.
