The employment relationship is based on the employer paying wages in return for work performed by the employee, so if the employee does not attend work, there is no obligation to pay, unless it is the employers’ decision to close up. 

Morale and motivation: Employees who are treated well in these circumstances will be much more motivated and committed to a fair-minded employer than those who are penalised for circumstances beyond their control.  On the other hand you should balance this perhaps with consideration for those who did make it into work, often in very difficult circumstances. If everyone gets paid regardless, what is the incentive to go the extra mile next time?

Working from home: For many businesses, this is becoming increasingly practical given that more employees have access to a laptop or a home computer that allows them to fulfil their duties from home.  Make sure you remember insurance, security and health and safety when considering this option.

Introduce an ‘Adverse Weather Policy’
It would be sensible to introduce a policy on adverse weather conditions, or amend your absence management policy. This will make it clear to your employees, in advance, of what will happen in future cases of bad weather.  Make sure you are clear that employees are expected to make reasonable efforts to get into work (e.g. using alternative travel arrangements), but that they should not risk their safety to do so.
 

Good excuse for a day off?
You should make your employees aware that, whilst you appreciate that there may be some difficulties getting into work, any employee suspected of using the weather conditions as an excuse for not attending work may be subject to investigation and possible disciplinary action.

Will I face claims for unlawful deduction of wages if I don’t pay if someone can’t get to work?
As with any claim, it’s possible, but you can minimize the risk by ensuring that all decisions are sensible, fair and consistent. 

Whatever your decision, as always, we would be pleased to hear from you if you need help developing a policy or answering a specific query.