--- title: Inclement Weather-Remote Work Policy description: An inclement weather remote work policy helps employers manage safety, pay and expectations during severe weather. 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- - - [whatsapp://send?text=https://blog.axcethr.com/qa-remote-work-and-employee-safety-during-inclement-weather](whatsapp://send?text=https://blog.axcethr.com/qa-remote-work-and-employee-safety-during-inclement-weather) - [mailto:?subject=Inclement%20Weather-Remote%20Work%20Policy&body=https://blog.axcethr.com/qa-remote-work-and-employee-safety-during-inclement-weather](mailto:?subject=Inclement%20Weather-Remote%20Work%20Policy&body=https://blog.axcethr.com/qa-remote-work-and-employee-safety-during-inclement-weather) ![inclement-weather-remote-work-policy (1)](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs-fs/hubfs/inclement-weather-remote-work-policy%20(1).webp?width=1200&height=800&name=inclement-weather-remote-work-policy%20(1).webp) As Kansas City braces for a combination of dangerously cold temperatures, increasing chances of accumulating snow and a winter storm system later this week, many local businesses are facing critical operational questions: *How can we continue functioning safely? And how can we protect our employees when conditions turn treacherous?* Recent forecasts show Arctic air moving into the region with colder-than-normal conditions expected through the weekend, creating hazardous travel and potential snow impacts. A clear inclement weather-remote work policy is essential in this environment — one that outlines how and when your team can transition to working safely from home if commuting becomes unsafe. In this post, we answer common questions and provide practical guidance to help your business prepare, communicate, and operate effectively during severe winter weather.   RELATED: [Inclement Weather Policy - Can Employers Require Attendance During Severe Weather? >>](https://blog.axcethr.com/inclement-weather-policy-can-employers-require-attendance-during-severe-storms) ## What Is an Inclement Weather Remote Work Policy? An inclement weather remote work policy outlines when employees are allowed or encouraged to work from home due to hazardous conditions, [how inclement weather decisions are communicated](https://blog.axcethr.com/how-to-communicate-weather-related-business-closures-to-employees-and-customers), and what expectations apply during temporary remote work periods. It helps employers maintain business continuity while prioritizing employee safety during snowstorms, extreme cold, ice events or other severe weather. ## When Should an Inclement Weather Remote Work Policy Be Used? An inclement weather remote work policy is typically activated when: - Local travel advisories or warnings are issued - Road conditions make commuting unsafe - [Extreme cold poses safety risks](https://blog.axcethr.com/working-in-extreme-cold-conditions-tips-to-prevent-hypothermia) - Schools or childcare facilities close unexpectedly - Power outages or infrastructure disruptions occur Employers should clearly state whether remote work is **encouraged, optional or required** under these circumstances. ## Developing an Inclement Weather-Remote Work Strategy ### Question Recently, some employees presented a proposal to work at home on days when weather conditions are severe. None of our employees currently works outside of the office, so we don’t have a remote work policy for employees (occasional or otherwise). How should we respond? ### Answer  As an employer, you have a legal and ethical obligation to keep employees safe while they’re working on your behalf. When possible, letting people work from home is far better than having an employee get hurt on the way to work, which could put your company at risk of a workers’ compensation claim or a negligence or wrongful death lawsuit. Even more important than the legal concerns, of course, is to follow practices that demonstrate you care about your employees’ well-being. In addition to commuting safety, schools may be closed, leaving those employees who have young children in a pinch. In our experience, allowing remote work is a good practice when weather is a factor. [![New call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/c167f862-fd85-4d4d-b199-6df7797ba9dd.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2652187/c167f862-fd85-4d4d-b199-6df7797ba9dd) ## Establishing Clear Guidelines: The Need for an Inclement Weather-Remote Work Policy When severe storms strike, having a proactive inclement weather-remote work policy is essential. A well-crafted policy ensures employees understand when remote work is encouraged and what steps to take if weather conditions prevent them from commuting safely. Effective communication, clear expectations and a defined process for transitioning to remote work can minimize disruptions while keeping employees safe. ### Question Do we need an inclement weather-remote work policy? ### Answer The short answer is yes. Such a policy lets employees know the circumstances under which the company encourages them to work from home. ![Services-CTA-PEO-Services-_1_ (1)](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Services-CTA-PEO-Services-_1_%20(1).webp?width=1400&height=732&name=Services-CTA-PEO-Services-_1_%20(1).webp) ### Question What should we include in an inclement weather-remote work policy? ### Answer During the pandemic, many companies developed remote work policies. That’s a good place to start as you develop or update existing inclement weather guidelines – which you should do unless your entire team telecommutes 100% of the time. Your inclement weather-remote work policy should clearly define expectations, such as employees’ availability when they are off-site, connectivity to systems they need to do their jobs (internet and phone, for instance), work hours and how they should notify their managers and departments that they will be working from home. You’ll also need to ensure that employees who are allowed to work from home have everything they need for remote work health and safety. [![inclement weather messages templates](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/6403797d-1205-45a5-97bc-f94f0e194105.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2652187/6403797d-1205-45a5-97bc-f94f0e194105) ## Critical Components of an Effective Inclement Weather-Remote Work Policy Establishing protocols your company will follow when bad weather occurs on days employees would otherwise be expected at the workplace ensures everyone knows what to do when the time comes. Most notably, your policy should address: - How and when employees will be notified of an office closure. - When and whether late start times or early work departures are allowed. - Whether or not hourly employees will be compensated if you decide to close the office and they cannot perform their jobs at home. Be sure to check the [Fair Labor Standards Act](https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/flsa) of the U.S. Department of Labor, which sets forth requirements related to inclement weather and worker pay. - How employees should report that they can’t make it into an open workplace and whether their pay will be docked if they are non-exempt. - What your expectations of productivity will be for employees whose work can be completed at home. To prepare for extreme weather, consider integrating the following into your policy: - Use multi-channel communication tools like SMS alerts or mobile apps to notify employees of closures or transitions to remote work during power outages or emergencies. - Develop a remote worker safety checklist, including guidelines for ergonomic setups, [hazard prevention](https://blog.axcethr.com/workplace-safety-risk-management) and ensuring stable internet access. - Categorize roles to distinguish between location-dependent and remote-eligible work, ensuring every function is covered during severe weather. An effective inclement weather-remote work policy protects both you and your employees. It helps ensure your people – the most important resources a small business has – stay safe, connected, informed and engaged during severe weather events. RELATED: [Weather Closures: Do You Have to Pay Employees for Snow Days? >>](https://blog.axcethr.com/weather-closures-do-you-have-to-pay-employees-for-snow-days#:~:text=Nonexempt%20employees,-%E2%80%9CNonexempt%E2%80%9D%20is%20a&text=Generally%2C%20your%20company%20has%20no,compensate%20them%20for%20that%20time.) ## [![Hyperlinked image with the text Are Employers Required to Pay Employees for Snow Days. The image links to Axcet HR Solutions' blog on inclement weather pay.](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/interactive-184592757383.png)](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLLSG0DfMunlJDJeNJxN7bTtc8v75ZVrfDc6%2FCMq%2F8yv3XQ8hRzsUkjzTvvzn55ZYkvNGJTRLDoBYHXMOrrTx3zCN2ONSMK1J%2FfvO7a9E%2BdrXrKKr76zPKtc6ADs%2BnjtKH5cLr5o6hl1hOoUNvoTKN4zFtGwNy6%2FvBEuH819MkNfMQqGCnaJ2Tl9Lcmy1Jjn7ScNH7O0jI4j8pUZLnt6oBLt%2FD311lvz0cXkkGQQIsSSgHFgf8D6xA%3D%3D&webInteractiveContentId=184592757383&portalId=2652187) ## Fostering a Supportive Work Environment: Health and Safety in Focus Providing flexibility during severe weather, such as remote work options, reduces employee stress and shows your commitment to their safety and well-being. To take it a step further, ensure employees are equipped with resources like a remote worker safety checklist, ergonomic setup advice and hazard prevention tips for their home workspace. At Axcet HR Solutions, we go beyond guidance—we partner with businesses like yours to craft tailored inclement weather policies and strategies. With over three decades of experience in Kansas City, our [safety and health consultants](https://www.axcethr.com/services/workers-comp-and-employee-safety-risk-management/workplace-safety/) are here to help you prioritize employee safety while maintaining business continuity. [Schedule a consultation](https://www.axcethr.com/schedule-consultation/) with us today to prepare your workforce for whatever the weather may bring. [![New call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/9758b087-ec74-438d-a7b6-270ed3cca6da.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2652187/9758b087-ec74-438d-a7b6-270ed3cca6da) [![Jenny Barnes, SPHR](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Jenny.jpg?width=80&height=80&name=Jenny.jpg)](https://blog.axcethr.com/author/jenny-barnes) Written by #### [Jenny Barnes, SPHR](https://blog.axcethr.com/author/jenny-barnes) Jennifer Barnes, SPHR is a seasoned HR business professional and program manager with a strong track record in employee relations, HR strategy, and compliance. Currently serving as a Human Resources Consultant at Axcet HR Solutions, Jennifer brings over a decade of experience leading HR initiatives that support organizational growth and operational excellence. Prior to joining Axcet, she held strategic roles at companies like Chewy and Amazon, where she specialized in employee investigations, coaching for leadership teams, and KPI-driven program management. Her cross-industry HR expertise is further bolstered by a portfolio of respected credentials, including the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and a Certificate in Data Analytics from HRCI. Jennifer is also a Belbin Team Roles Certified Practitioner, reflecting her passion for leadership development and effective team dynamics. Beyond her corporate achievements, Jennifer has dedicated years to animal welfare causes, volunteering and fostering through the Lawrence Humane Society and previously with the Cayo Animal Welfare Society. With a commitment to strategic HR planning, data-driven decision-making, and compassionate service, Jennifer continues to make a meaningful impact in both her professional and community roles. Read more [View all posts →](https://blog.axcethr.com/author/jenny-barnes) ### Get HR Updates ### Table of Contents ### Related Resources - [services Human Resources](https://www.axcethr.com/services/human-resources/) #### [Inclement Weather Pay: A Payroll Compliance Guide for Snow Days ![A senior Axcet payroll administrator give advice to employers on inclement weather pay for snow days.](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/do-you-have-to-pay-employees-for-snow-days-_1200-%C3%97-628-px_%20(1).webp)](https://blog.axcethr.com/weather-closures-do-you-have-to-pay-employees-for-snow-days) #### [![Woman walking through snow as businesses implement and announce weather closures](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/how%20to%20communicate%20weather%20related%20business%20closures.webp) Staying Connected During the Storm: Tips to Announce Weather Closures](https://blog.axcethr.com/how-to-communicate-weather-related-business-closures-to-employees-and-customers) ## Let us know what you think... ![AxcetHR Blog](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/AxcetHR2021%20Blog/axcethr_logo_white%20(1).png) - [Why Axcet](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/) - [What We Stand For](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/what-we-stand-for/) - [Expertise](https://www.axcethr.com/expertise/) - [Employee Benefits](https://www.axcethr.com/services/employee-benefits/) - [Human Resources](https://www.axcethr.com/services/human-resources/) - [Payroll Services](https://www.axcethr.com/services/payroll-and-tax-administration-services/) - [Risk Management](https://www.axcethr.com/services/workers-comp-and-employee-safety-risk-management/) - [Meet the Team](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/meet-the-team/) - [Subscribe to Latest Resources](https://www.axcethr.com/subscribe-to-the-latest-resources/) - [Resource Library](https://www.axcethr.com/expertise/resource-library/) - [\[ Client Portal \]](https://www.axcethr.com/client-services/) - - - - - Search for: Copyright © 2023 Axcet HR Solutions – Kansas City's PEO Since 1988 | [Privacy Policy](https://www.axcethr.com/privacy-policy/) | [Terms and Conditions](https://www.axcethr.com/terms-conditions/) | [**Join our Team – Careers »**](https://axcethrsolutions.prismhr-hire.com/) 10975 Grandview Drive Suite 200, Corporate Woods Building 27, Overland Park, KS 66210 | Call us: 913-383-2999 *The IRS does not endorse any particular For more information on [certified professional employer organizations](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/certified-peo/), go to [www.irs.gov](https://www.irs.gov).* Remove cookies ![](https://dc.ads.linkedin.com/collect/?pid=43031&fmt=gif) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Jenny Barnes, SPHR", "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/author/jenny-barnes" }, "dateModified" : "2026-09-18T02:52:05.457Z", "datePublished" : "2026-01-21T17:00:00.000Z", "headline" : "Inclement Weather-Remote Work Policy", "image" : [ "https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/inclement-weather-remote-work-policy-_1200-x-628-px_%20(1).webp" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/qa-remote-work-and-employee-safety-during-inclement-weather", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/_logo_axcethr_primary.png" }, "name" : "Axcet HR Solutions" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@id" : "https://www.axcethr.com/#organization", "@type" : "Organization", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "US", "addressLocality" : "Kansas City", "addressRegion" : "MO" }, "aggregateRating" : { "@type" : "AggregateRating", "bestRating" : "5", "ratingValue" : "5", "reviewCount" : "100" }, "areaServed" : { "@type" : "Country", "name" : "United States" }, "award" : [ "IRS Certified Professional Employer Organization (CPEO)", "Award-Winning HR Solutions Provider", "SHRM Certified HR Professionals", "HRCI Certified HR Professionals" ], "contactPoint" : { "@type" : "ContactPoint", "areaServed" : "US", "availableLanguage" : "English", "contactType" : "Customer Service" }, "description" : "Award-winning Professional Employer Organization (PEO) providing comprehensive HR solutions, payroll services, employee benefits, and risk management to small and mid-sized businesses. 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And how can we protect our employees when conditions turn treacherous? Recent forecasts show Arctic air moving into the region with colder-than-normal conditions expected through the weekend, creating hazardous travel and potential snow impacts. A clear inclement weather-remote work policy is essential in this environment — one that outlines how and when your team can transition to working safely from home if commuting becomes unsafe. In this post, we answer common questions and provide practical guidance to help your business prepare, communicate, and operate effectively during severe winter weather. RELATED: Inclement Weather Policy - Can Employers Require Attendance During Severe Weather? >> What Is an Inclement Weather Remote Work Policy? An inclement weather remote work policy outlines when employees are allowed or encouraged to work from home due to hazardous conditions, how inclement weather decisions are communicated, and what expectations apply during temporary remote work periods. It helps employers maintain business continuity while prioritizing employee safety during snowstorms, extreme cold, ice events or other severe weather. When Should an Inclement Weather Remote Work Policy Be Used? An inclement weather remote work policy is typically activated when: Local travel advisories or warnings are issued Road conditions make commuting unsafe Extreme cold poses safety risks Schools or childcare facilities close unexpectedly Power outages or infrastructure disruptions occur Employers should clearly state whether remote work is encouraged, optional or required under these circumstances. Developing an Inclement Weather-Remote Work Strategy Question Recently, some employees presented a proposal to work at home on days when weather conditions are severe. None of our employees currently works outside of the office, so we don’t have a remote work policy for employees (occasional or otherwise). How should we respond? Answer As an employer, you have a legal and ethical obligation to keep employees safe while they’re working on your behalf. When possible, letting people work from home is far better than having an employee get hurt on the way to work, which could put your company at risk of a workers’ compensation claim or a negligence or wrongful death lawsuit. Even more important than the legal concerns, of course, is to follow practices that demonstrate you care about your employees’ well-being. In addition to commuting safety, schools may be closed, leaving those employees who have young children in a pinch. In our experience, allowing remote work is a good practice when weather is a factor. Establishing Clear Guidelines: The Need for an Inclement Weather-Remote Work Policy When severe storms strike, having a proactive inclement weather-remote work policy is essential. A well-crafted policy ensures employees understand when remote work is encouraged and what steps to take if weather conditions prevent them from commuting safely. Effective communication, clear expectations and a defined process for transitioning to remote work can minimize disruptions while keeping employees safe. Question Do we need an inclement weather-remote work policy? Answer The short answer is yes. Such a policy lets employees know the circumstances under which the company encourages them to work from home. Question What should we include in an inclement weather-remote work policy? Answer During the pandemic, many companies developed remote work policies. That’s a good place to start as you develop or update existing inclement weather guidelines – which you should do unless your entire team telecommutes 100% of the time. Your inclement weather-remote work policy should clearly define expectations, such as employees’ availability when they are off-site, connectivity to systems they need to do their jobs (internet and phone, for instance), work hours and how they should notify their managers and departments that they will be working from home. You’ll also need to ensure that employees who are allowed to work from home have everything they need for remote work health and safety. Critical Components of an Effective Inclement Weather-Remote Work Policy Establishing protocols your company will follow when bad weather occurs on days employees would otherwise be expected at the workplace ensures everyone knows what to do when the time comes. Most notably, your policy should address: How and when employees will be notified of an office closure. When and whether late start times or early work departures are allowed. Whether or not hourly employees will be compensated if you decide to close the office and they cannot perform their jobs at home. Be sure to check the Fair Labor Standards Act of the U.S. Department of Labor, which sets forth requirements related to inclement weather and worker pay. How employees should report that they can’t make it into an open workplace and whether their pay will be docked if they are non-exempt. What your expectations of productivity will be for employees whose work can be completed at home. To prepare for extreme weather, consider integrating the following into your policy: Use multi-channel communication tools like SMS alerts or mobile apps to notify employees of closures or transitions to remote work during power outages or emergencies. Develop a remote worker safety checklist, including guidelines for ergonomic setups, hazard prevention and ensuring stable internet access. Categorize roles to distinguish between location-dependent and remote-eligible work, ensuring every function is covered during severe weather. An effective inclement weather-remote work policy protects both you and your employees. It helps ensure your people – the most important resources a small business has – stay safe, connected, informed and engaged during severe weather events. RELATED: Weather Closures: Do You Have to Pay Employees for Snow Days? >> Fostering a Supportive Work Environment: Health and Safety in Focus Providing flexibility during severe weather, such as remote work options, reduces employee stress and shows your commitment to their safety and well-being. To take it a step further, ensure employees are equipped with resources like a remote worker safety checklist, ergonomic setup advice and hazard prevention tips for their home workspace. At Axcet HR Solutions, we go beyond guidance—we partner with businesses like yours to craft tailored inclement weather policies and strategies. With over three decades of experience in Kansas City, our safety and health consultants are here to help you prioritize employee safety while maintaining business continuity. Schedule a consultation with us today to prepare your workforce for whatever the weather may bring.", "author" : { "@id" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/author/jenny-barnes#author", "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Jenny Barnes, SPHR", "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/author/jenny-barnes" }, "dateCreated" : "2026-01-21", "dateModified" : "2026-09-18", "datePublished" : "2026-01-21", "description" : "As Kansas City braces for a combination of dangerously cold temperatures, increasing chances of accumulating snow and a winter storm system later this week, many local businesses are facing critical operational questions: How can we continue functioning safely? And how can we protect our employees when conditions turn treacherous? 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