Over the last couple of weeks, we’ve seen extreme winter conditions across the country. As these storms continue to affect roadways, transportation, and daily life, employers are being urged to prioritize the wellbeing and safety of their staff during these unprecedented weather events.
As these conditions make it challenging for many Canadians to commute safely or even work remotely, employers are being urged to take proactive steps to support their workforce.
It’s important that businesses offer accommodation and flexibility to ensure staff safety while maintaining operations. Employers should ensure that employees’ needs are met—whether through remote work options, adjusted schedules, or paid leave for those unable to safely commute.
Given that winter weather is far from over, employers should consider these key strategies:
Offer flexible work options. When possible, allow employees to work remotely to avoid the dangers of traveling in hazardous conditions. For roles requiring physical presence, consider offering flexible start and end times to bypass peak storm hours.
Communicate regularly. Frequent updates are essential. Keep employees informed about real-time weather conditions, any potential disruptions to business, and tips for safe commuting. This helps reduce stress and ensures employees feel supported.
Prioritize employee safety. Safety should always come first. Employers should encourage staff to stay home if the weather makes commuting unsafe, offering paid time off or additional leave when necessary.
Incorporating leave programs, such as Ontario’s Personal and Family Responsibility Leave, is also an effective way to support staff during storm disruptions. Offering short-notice vacation or paid leave for those unable to attend work is another valuable option for employers to consider.
By adopting these strategies, employers can demonstrate a commitment to their employees’ safety and wellbeing.
A global leader in HR and health & safety consulting, Peninsula has been supporting small and medium businesses for 40 years. We are trusted by over 140,000 SMBs globally. In Canada, we helped over 6,500 SMBs with tailored HR documentation, 24/7 employer advice, and provide employment management software. We pride ourselves on delivering a service that mitigates risk, adds value, and allows businesses to focus their time on what matters most.
