Spain has recently announced a new leave policy that allows workers to avoid going to work during extreme weather conditions.
This announcement follows the deadly floods that struck the country a month ago, claiming the lives of more than 220 people.
The decision comes in response to criticism of several companies that required employees to work despite a red weather warning issued by the country’s meteorological institute.
According to Spain’s Labour Minister, Yolanda Díaz, the new law aims to safeguard workers by ensuring that no one is exposed to unnecessary risks.
Speaking to Spanish public service company RTVE, Díaz emphasized that when authorities issue weather warnings indicating potential danger, workers should be able to refrain from going to work.
Inspired by Canadian laws, Spain aims to protect workers during dangerous weather conditions.“If authorities warn of risks, the worker must refrain from going to work,” she said.
The move to implement such a policy is influenced by similar laws in Canada, where weather-related leave is already in place.
In Spain, this policy reflects the government’s commitment to prioritizing public safety and workers’ well-being during extreme weather events.
The new leave aims to prevent unnecessary exposure to dangerous weather conditions, offering peace of mind to workers who might otherwise feel compelled to report to work despite safety concerns.
It highlights the evolving nature of labor laws, as governments adapt to the growing frequency and severity of extreme weather events caused by climate change.