Everything you need to know about your work rights on a snow day

Britain has been hit by a cold blast recently, whether it's freezing at work, you can't physically get to work, or you have to look after your kids because their school is closed, what are your rights?

According to the Gov.uk website if the weather is bad and you think it might affect your usual working pattern, you should ask your employer about alternatives such as working from home, taking leave, or making up time later on if you can't do your work.

You should also check your contract as it might outline your rights if there is travel disruption.

If it doesn't, what are your options?

Taking paid holiday

If there is going to be travel disruption then an employer CAN ask staff to take annual leave. However, they must give the correct notice, which is double the time they want you to take off. For example if they want you to take one day's annual leave then they must give you two days notice. Some contracts might have a different notice period, in which case these timings will apply.

Working flexibly

If you work flexibly then employers can ask you to work from home, or to make up the time later on, however unless this is stated in your contract employers can't insist on this.

If the workplace is closed

If your workplace is closed and you don't normally work from home then employers can't deduct your pay, however they can ask staff to work from another office, or from home if it is possible.

Time off to look after children

In an emergency situation, such as bad weather, taking time off to look after dependents if their school or childcare is closed, is possible, however it will be unpaid and must be agreed between the employee and employer.

Travel disruption

As an employee if you can't get to work because of bad weather you have no legal right to be paid by the employer for travel delays. However some employers will have discretionary payments for travel disruption or have their own informal arrangements.

Workplace temperatures

There are no laws in place for workplace minimum or maximum working temperatures, however a minimum guidance temperature is given of 16C, or 13C for employees doing physical work. Employers should still stick to health and safety work law, which includes keeping the temperature at a comfortable level and providing clean and fresh air.

If the workplace temperature isn't comfortable then employees should talk to their employer.

For more information check out Gov.uk and ACAS.

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