With Olympic organisers predicting one million extra Games-related journeys into the capital this summer, workplace experts Acas have issued advice for employers on how to minimise the disruption to their business.
For many thousands of workers the disruption will mean finding alternative routes into work – arranging to work from home, or for longer-distance commuters agreeing with their employer that they work at one of its offices outside of London during the Games.
Acas advise that employers need to ensure they plan ahead of the Games and consider more flexible working arrangements to minimise potential disruption, manage staff expectations and ensure business runs smoothly.
John Taylor, Acas Chief Executive, said:
“By planning ahead employers will avoid problems later on. Your business
operations could potentially look quite different during the Games as
employers adapt their policies and procedures.”
For firms based in the capital this might mean having a skeleton staff in
the office while others temporarily work from home. If you’re a business
owner with more than one site around the country you might want to
consider temporarily relocating staff to another site if possible. Employers
could also consider working round problems by temporarily altering the
working hours to avoid peak congestion times.
Mr Taylor added:
“Employers may want to take a more flexible approach to matters such as
working hours and location during the Games. Simply making small but
significant adjustments will mean a happier and more productive workforce
this summer.”
Problems getting into London during the Games are only one aspect employers should plan for this summer. With the games being held during the summer holidays, employers will be anticipating more requests than usual for time off. This could be for holiday requests away from the Games.
You might also have staff attending the Games or wanting to watch TV or internet coverage. Some of your team might be lucky enough to be a volunteer.
Additionally some people will have no plans to take time off during the Games. Employers need to demonstrate that policies have been applied consistently and fairly.
