The Generalitat reminds workers of their right not to attend work in the event of a declared red alert

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Universities, and Employment, through the Directorate General of Labour, informs workers that, in light of the Valencian Community’s weather notice for rain and storms, they have the right not to report to work if a proclaimed emergency occurs.

Thus, we remind you that workers can take advantage of the so-called “climate leave” created by Royal Decree-Law 8/2024. This is a paid leave that permits employees to be absent from work for up to four days due to substantial dangers or severe weather warnings that prevent them from getting to work. The leave is valid for up to four days, although it can be extended under a force majeure furlough plan (ERTE) if necessary.

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Workers might use this right to avoid travelling in unsafe situations. As a result, the Labour Authority emphasises the necessity of safeguarding workers’ physical and occupational safety.

Furthermore, organisations are encouraged to prioritise remote work whenever possible, when the job requires it, and when communication conditions permit it.

Similarly, the Directorate General of Labour emphasises that if the organisation intends to offer remote work, the employee must give their services in this manner. If the workplace is unwilling to provide employees with the option of working remotely, employees must notify the employer of their incapacity to attend work and the circumstances that led to this.

Author: Derek Appleton