Can you miss work if it’s snowing and do you get paid? (Image: Getty)
The UK is bracing for its first arctic blast of the year, with some forecasts predicting as much as 20cm of snow.
Britain could be hit with the snowfall towards the end of November that could bring blizzard-like conditions.
And we all know that snowy weather often causes travel chaos across the UK, leaving many wondering if they can skip work and still get paid.
The answer depends on your workplace policies, employment contract and individual circumstances.
Here we look at all the details about wehther you can get paid if you miss work becasue of snow.
READ MORE: UK weather maps reveal 7 counties that won’t be getting snow this week
In most cases, you are not automatically entitled to pay if snow disrupts your journey to work. (Image: Getty)
Are you entitled to pay if you can’t make it in?
In most cases, you are not automatically entitled to pay if snow disrupts your journey to work.
Employers are not legally required to pay you if you cannot attend due to bad weather, according to Government advice and Acas.
However, some employers may have specific policies or agreements in place that allow for paid leave in such situations.
If your workplace is open and you are unable to get there, your employer can treat the absence as unpaid leave unless you agree to use annual leave.
Employers might also let you make up the hours later or work from home if your job allows it.
Employers are not legally required to pay you if you cannot attend due to bad weather. (Image: Getty)
What if your workplace is closed?
If your workplace closes due to bad weather, you are entitled to be paid as long as you are ready and able to work.
Employers cannot force you to take the time as annual leave unless this is specified in your contract.
They may ask you to work from home or another location, depending on the nature of your job.
Can you be forced to take annual leave?
Your employer can ask you to take a day of annual leave, but only if they provide sufficient notice.
By law, the notice must be at least twice the length of the leave requested.
For instance, if you are asked to take one day of leave, your employer must give you two days’ notice.
Some employers may have specific policies or agreements in place. (Image: Getty)
What about childcare issues?
If your child’s school closes due to snow, you are entitled to take unpaid leave to care for them.
This falls under the legal right to emergency time off for dependents.
However, this leave is unpaid unless your employer agrees otherwise.
Is working from home an option?
Many employers may offer remote working as a solution during bad weather.
This arrangement depends on the nature of your job and your employer’s policies.
If you can work from home, it ensures you don’t lose pay and allows businesses to continue operating.
Experts say that open communication with your employer is very important. (Image: Getty)
Plan ahead
If snow is forecast, it might be a good idea to check your employment contract or company policies to see what arrangements are in place for severe weather.
Experts say that open communication with your employer is very important to avoid confusion and find a solution that works for both parties.