Most small businesses have woken this morning to face the aftermath of the riots taken places across the UK with the situation expected to be an ongoing concern for businesses located in the areas.
Is your business adequately equipped to deal with the HR and health & safety consequences?
Is your workplace closed for business as a result of the riots and what are your responsibilities to your employees?
You may be able to ask your employees to assist with the clear up. It is not unreasonable to ask employees to undertake duties that would not normally be within their role during these exceptional circumstances. However you should not ask an employee to undertake anything dangerous and if an employee refuses from a health and safety perspective you should take further advice before proceeding.
Employees unable to attend the workplace
Some employees may have been affected by rioting and looting around where they live and although your business is open they may be unable to get to work safely. Some may be unable to attend work due to childcare issues. If your business has been unaffected you may be able to offer them the opportunity to make up the time, take holiday or take unpaid leave. You should refer to your employment contracts.
Employers should carry out an ongoing risk assessment in their locality. Information can be obtained via local radio and news channels as to the threat in your area. There is a statutory duty to ensure your employees’ safety in the work place. Should you decide to remain open you should ensure that emergency procedures are in place and are communicated to all employees.
Can you dismiss an employee who had been involved in the riots and/or looting?
Potentially yes but regard must be had to due legal process. An investigation should take place as soon as is practicable to identify whether there is sufficient information to suspend an employee. Again you will need to refer to your company handbook.
Who can help?
Finch Consultancy offer a free initial chat to discuss your HR requirements and discuss how you can keep your business protected in such issues, call them today on 01773 749914 or email info@finchconsultancy.co.uk
Qudos Consulting have recently sent out a email campaign advising on the above matters and are currently offering a free 20 minute telephone call with one of our professional and qualified advice team to discuss how your business is affected and how they can help – call 01455 850000 or alternatively e-mail qed@qdosconsulting.com
Brighter Directions are here to offer further support to manage your marketing campaigns if required, you can call us on 01246 252855
