By Alexander J. Passantino, Richard L. Alfred, Loren Gesinsky, James L. Curtis, and Meagan Noel Newman

In anticipation of a long, stormy winer, Seyfarth Shaw has prepared a Client Alert to help employers navigate wage & hour issues arising from potential closures, as well as workplace safety issues related to severe winter weather.

In the wake of winter storms thousands of businesses, schools and government offices face the challenge of cleaning up significant ice and snowfall and trying to return to operation. For many of these employers, the unusual days ahead may require special attention to workplace safety issues. Storm cleanup poses significant hazards that must be addressed. Employees may be asked to perform tasks or volunteer to undertake certain responsibilities that are not within their regular job duties. In the hurry to get our communities up and moving again, many unfamiliar hazards can be easily overlooked by employers and employees. Even in these extraordinary circumstances, employers are responsible for the safety and health of their employees in the workplace and must take measures to prevent injury and illness.

Additionally, winter weather creates a variety of hazards that can significantly impact everyday tasks and work activities. These hazards include slippery roads/surfaces, strong winds and environmental cold.

Read the full Client Alert for all of our guidance and recommendations.