Given the increase in major weather events that have impacted Pennsylvania recently, including high winds and substantial flooding, employers should consider the following issues that may arise when closings, delays, and absences are caused by inclement weather.

Must employees be paid when the business is closed because of inclement weather?

Nonexempt employees need not be paid for time when they do not work because the business is closed. Exempt employees must be paid their salary for the week regardless of the business closing. An employer may require exempt employees to use accrued paid time off.

Must employees be paid if they don’t report to work due to inclement weather when the business is open?

Nonexempt employees need not be paid for the time they are absent from work. Exempt employees need not be paid for a whole day absence taken due to inclement weather. An exempt employee absent for part of a day may be required to use accrued paid time off. However, if the exempt employee has no accrued paid time off, his or her salary may not be docked for a partial day absence.