Irish Workers May Skip Work Amidst Heatwave

Employee absences could rise as temperatures soar, warns expert.

As Ireland braces for exceptionally high temperatures, some workers may be tempted to call in sick or request leave, according to **Moira Grassick**, chief operating officer at Peninsula Ireland. Flexible work arrangements could alleviate potential staffing issues.

Absenteeism on the Rise?

**Moira Grassick** anticipates an increase in absences due to the predicted extreme weather. While an immediate surge may not be apparent, employees might decide tonight to take tomorrow off.

She elaborated that workers might call in sick, request last-minute annual leave, or seek flexible working arrangements, like starting or finishing earlier. If a business remains open, **Ms. Grassick** clarified there’s no legal requirement to pay for unauthorized absences; the decision rests with employers.

Employer Discretion

According to **Ms. Grassick**, withholding pay from employees who don’t show up during extreme weather could negatively impact morale and the company’s reputation. A supportive approach to employee well-being during the heatwave is essential.

“The well-being of your employees should be a key factor in your decision, and your adverse weather policy should provide guidance for all parties on the matter,” she said.

To mitigate absenteeism, **Ms. Grassick** suggests flexible work policies that allow employees to avoid long commutes, along with a relaxed “summer dress code” appropriate for the heat.

Calls for Workplace Temperature Limits

**Marie Sherlock**, Labour Party health spokesperson, is advocating for legally defined maximum temperature limits in all workplaces, citing climate change. She highlighted the European Trade Union Confederation’s recent appeal for a binding EU directive concerning occupational heat exposure.

“Climate change is increasingly exposing workers across the world to occupational heat stress,” she stated.

**Sherlock** added: “Ireland is not immune to this. While temperatures hitting 30C may feel like a novelty in Ireland, the reality for some workers is far from pleasant – and, in some cases, it may be dangerous.”

She noted that high temperatures pose a particular challenge for those working in poorly ventilated spaces, without air conditioning, or outdoors. An estimated 2.3 billion people worldwide are exposed to heat stress while working (ILO, 2022).

**Sherlock** also urged the government to explore financial supports, such as wage compensation, for workers affected by heat-related work stoppages, emphasizing, “That’s about basic fairness.”