News and Events

Employers' Considerations for the Olympic Games

Whether you're excited about the Games being on your doorstep, or dreading the chaos that may arrive along with the competitors, spectators and press, there are some important issues employers will need to address in preparation for the 2012 Olympics.

What are the issues for Employers?
Employees may wish to take time off as they have (miraculously it seems) managed to get tickets for one of the events. Alternatively, they may want to take time off to watch on television, the internet or volunteer to assist with the Games themselves.

As an employer, how will you deal with requests for time off? Will it be on a first come, first served basis ? Will you pay employees during time off or will it be unpaid?

Employers will need to consider these issues and put procedures in place well in advance to prevent issues occurring nearer the time.

What if employees volunteer to help at the games?
Volunteers will be giving 10 days work for the games and will undertake three days training in preparation. There is no legal right to take time off for volunteering or for the time taken to be paid. However, the employee will be expanding their experience and skills base which could be valuable to you - not to mention the good will generated.

As an employer, you can state that any time taken is taken as unpaid leave. Alternatively, you could ask employees to take it from their holiday entitlement or give special paid leave... or a combination of all three.

What about employees who will be at work during this period?
Whilst at work, employees may watch events on their work computer, phone or in the break room whilst they should be carrying out their duties. You may consider allowing flexible working during the games so employees can watch their event of choice. As different employees will be likely to follow different sporting disciplines, attendance levels should balance out. You could also consider providing a television at work for the games themselves.

What can you do about employees who have disrupted travel to work due to the Olympics?
With events happening locally in Weymouth & Portland, travel disruptions may occur, affecting the ability for staff to get to and from work in the first place. Allowing staff to work from home or to come in/leave work at times to avoid congestion, are all options that should help avoid a detrimental impact on your business. Whilst the Council has schemes in place to minimise disruption, having a flexible approach to working hours or place of work would be sensible.

It's advisable for Employers to be clear about what they will and will not allow and set the boundaries for this one off UK event. Guidelines should be issued to staff well in advance of the Games so they're aware of the company policy and what will be expected of them to avoid any misunderstanding. That way, the Games can be enjoyed by all.

For advice on any employment matter, contact Battens Employment Team on 01935 846000.

For more information regarding travel advice for businesses during the Olympics go to the London 2012 Travel Advice for Business website.

Downloads: Travel advice for business workshop timetable and Olympic route network web links.

Created: 03 February 2012