Guide Published For Employers Dealing With 'Euro 2016 Fever'

NI Business Info has published a guide for employers on how to "survive Euro 2016 fever in the workplace".

With the UEFA Euro 2016 finals due to take place between Friday 10 June 2016 and Sunday 10 July 2016, and kick-off times for a number of the games scheduled for 14:00 and 17:00 UK time, guidance has been published addressing some of the main issues which may affect both employees and employers.

Annual leave

A company's annual leave policy should provide guidance on how to book time off.

Employers may wish to look at being more flexible when allowing employees leave during this period, with the understanding that this will be a temporary arrangement. Seeknow how much holiday to give your staff.

Sickness absence

An organisation's sickness policy will still apply during this time and this policy should be operated fairly and consistently for all staff. Levels of attendance should be monitored during this period in accordance with the company's attendance policy.

Any unauthorised absence or patterns in absence could result in formal proceedings.

Flexibility

One option that may be agreeable would be to have a more flexible working day, when employees may come in later or finish earlier, and then agree when this time can be made up.

Employers may decide to allow staff to swap shifts with the manager's permission or allow staff to take a break during match times. Any change in hours or flexibility in working hours should be approved before the event.

Use of social media and websites

There may be an increase in the use of social networking sites such as Facebook or Twitter, or websites covering the event. Employers should have a clear policy regarding web and social media use in the workplace and it should be made known to all employees.

If employers are monitoring internet usage then the data protection regulations require them to make it clear that it is happening to all employees. A web and social media policy should make clear what is and what is not acceptable usage.

Drinking or being under the influence at work

Some people may like to participate in a drink or two while watching a match or even may go to the pub to watch a match live.

It is important to remember that anyone found to be under the influence of alcohol in the workplace could be subject to disciplinary procedures.

(MH)