
Red weather warnings issued by Met Éireann signify the most severe weather conditions, with a high likelihood of significant disruption and potential risk to life. Businesses must act swiftly and decisively to protect their staff, customers, and operations. Here’s a guide to help you understand your obligations and how to plan for these type of events.
Understand the Implications of a Red Weather Warning
A red warning is a clear signal that severe weather conditions are imminent or occurring. These conditions can include heavy rainfall, strong winds, snow, or extreme temperatures. As an employer you have a legal duty under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 to ensure the health and safety of your employees while at work. This duty extends to making reasonable adjustments during extreme weather.
Key Steps for Your Business:
- Assess the Risks Conduct a risk assessment to identify the potential hazards posed by the severe weather. Consider factors such as employee travel, on-site safety, and the stability of your premises. Ensure the assessment is documented and acted upon.
- Communicate with Employees Inform your employees promptly about the red warning and the steps being taken. Use multiple channels, such as email, text messages, or internal communication systems, to ensure everyone is aware of the situation. Be clear about expectations, such as whether they should work remotely or remain at home.
- Facilitate Remote Work If possible, allow your employees to work from home during the warning period. Ensure they have the necessary tools and resources to do so effectively. Remote work is a practical solution to minimise risks associated with commuting in hazardous conditions.
- Consider Temporary Closures Depending on the severity of the warning, it may be prudent to close your business temporarily. You should prioritise safety over profits and communicate any closures clearly to your staff and customers. Ensure compliance with employment contracts regarding pay during such closures.
- Support Employee Wellbeing Severe weather can cause anxiety and stress. Offer support to your employees, such as access to an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) or practical advice on staying safe during the warning.
- Prepare Your Premises Secure outdoor furniture, signage, and any other items that could become hazards in strong winds. Ensure drains are clear to prevent flooding and check that emergency systems, such as backup generators, are functional.
- Review Insurance Policies Ensure your business insurance covers weather-related damages and interruptions. Familiarise yourself with the claims process in case of damage to property or stock.
Legal Obligations
Under Irish law, you must take reasonable steps to ensure employee safety. This includes considering alternative arrangements, such as:
- Flexible Working Hours: Allowing your employees to adjust their schedules to avoid peak weather conditions.
- Paid Leave: If your employees cannot safely commute or work remotely, employers should consider offering paid leave.
- Safe Premises: Ensuring the workplace remains safe for those who must be on-site, such as essential workers.
Plan Ahead
Preparation is key to minimising disruption. Develop a severe weather policy that outlines the steps your business will take during a red weather warning. Ensure your employees are familiar with the policy and conduct regular reviews to keep it up to date.
Red weather warnings are not to be taken lightly. For more detailed guidance, consult Met Éireann’s updates, and seek advice from health and safety professionals.
Stay safe, and remember: no business is worth risking lives.