Unpredictable weather, especially snow, wintery mix and sleet, can quickly disrupt operations, put your employees in danger, and negatively impact your business financially. An inclement weather policy ensures your business is prepared and proactive, thus, safeguarding both your team and your bottom line.
An inclement weather policy outlines clear procedures for extreme weather events such as snowstorms, heavy rain, or high winds. It includes guidelines on whether and how employees should report to work, options for remote work, and steps to notify staff and customers of closures or delays. With a well-defined plan, you’ll minimize confusion, maintain transparency, and reduce unnecessary risks to employee safety.
Internal Staff Communication
The first step in utilizing the policy is to inform your team once a decision has been made to close the business or close early. It’s important to note that certain situations, i.e. storm systems, might not affect all of the areas your employees are traveling from. Having a clear and concise message to each of them will eliminate any confusion.
For example: Michigan Retailers Association’s and Retailers Insurance Company’s inclement weather policy includes an automatic phone notification. In the event of an office closure, all employees receive an email and a recorded message from the CEO announcing the closure and reopening timeline.
Implementing an inclement weather policy also highlights your commitment to employee well-being. Clear communication and prioritizing safety build trust and morale within your team, fostering loyalty. Preparedness can also save you from potential liability issues by demonstrating proactive measures to ensure safety.
External Customer and Vendor Communication
For retail businesses, a weather policy helps you plan ahead to serve customers effectively, even during challenging conditions. By clearly communicating changes in operations, you maintain customer trust and satisfaction. Ensure you’ve contacted non-employee personnel, or pick-up orders, that were scheduled to come into the store that day. Lastly, don’t forget to inform the public by posting on your social channels about the closure.
Weather may be unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. Take the steps to implement an inclement weather policy and protect your business, employees, and customers while keeping operations as seamless as possible.