Letters | Flexible policies on returning to work after a typhoon would be a win-win

Readers discuss workplace policies related to extreme weather, the construction of Kai Tak Sports Park, and a measure that would enhance road safety

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People wait for trains at Tai Wai station after the Observatory downgraded the typhoon signal to a No. 3 warning on September 6. Photo: Jelly Tse

Published: 11:30am, 10 Sep 2024

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Hong Kong’s first No. 8 typhoon signal of the year sparked widespread discussion among my peers over the past few days. The Observatory announced before noon on Thursday that the No. 8 signal would be issued at 6:20pm, providing clear notice that allowed many to rearrange their schedules in advance. However, some of my colleagues and students were confused by this early warning.

Many are accustomed to the Observatory making formal announcements only two hours before the No. 8 signal is issued. This has led to certain organisations formulating extreme weather policies that rely on this sequence of events playing out.

In the case of Super Typhoon Yagi last week, the early notification caused one of my colleagues to interpret the rules in her own way, resulting in her not returning to work after lunch. For students, especially those with classes scheduled at 3pm, a dilemma over whether to return to campus to attend these classes arose.

By Friday, many hoped the No. 8 signal would last until later in the afternoon, allowing them to skip work and classes. However, it was cancelled at 12.40pm. Although this was somewhat disappointing, many had already adjusted their plans, converting in-person classes to online sessions and moving meetings to Zoom. I had done exactly the same and chose to work from home on Friday.

According to the Labour Department’s revised guidelines on work arrangements during extreme weather, employers should consult employees to put in place a reasonable resumption of work or remote work arrangement after the cancellation of the No. 8 signal warning. Particularly after severe weather, employees could face delays because of traffic congestion, so employers should consider flexible arrangements.