CSNA issues Storm Éowyn adverse conditions preparation guide
CSNA recommends that all businesses and employers take a proactive approach to minimise the disruption due to the Status Red storm warning
Print23 January 2025
The Convenience Stores & Newsagents Association of Ireland (CSNA) has warned that Met Éireann has issued a Status Red warning for the entire country for tomorrow, 24 January due to Storm Éowyn which is forecast to bring gale to storm force southerly winds becoming westerly with extreme, damaging and destructive gusts in excess of 130km/h.
The group which represents retailers big and small nationwide from the independent to the multi-franchise owners highlighted the following urgent warning.
Impacts:
- Danger to life
- Extremely dangerous travelling conditions
- Unsafe working conditions
- Disruption and cancellations to transport
- Many fallen trees
- Significant and widespread power outages
- Impacts to communications networks
- Cancellation of events
- Structural damage
- Wave overtopping
- Coastal flooding in low-lying and exposed areas
The warning will be in effect from 02.00 – 14.00 (depending on county – check here for details).
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has issued guidance for operators of construction sites.
For temporary structures, operators are being advised to anchor scaffolding, tie down materials and equipment and to secure fencing and hoarding.
They are also being urged to check whether any frame or structure is “at risk of collapse due to wind load”.
Staff payment
Regarding pay for employees whose attendance at work is affected by Storm Éowyn, you will find up to date advice from the Workplace Relations Commission here.
In general, there is no statutory entitlement for an employee to be paid if they cannot attend work because of extreme weather.
Anymore beneficial arrangement is a matter for agreement between the employer and the employee, and we advise employers to exercise discretion in the best interests of employees and the business in this area.
Contingency plans
CSNA recommends that all businesses and employers take a proactive approach to minimise the disruption due to this warning, or should there be another extreme weather event this spring.
This means putting contingency plans in place, advising employees of what will happen in the event of a Red Weather Alert and ensuring the there is sufficient planning to offset any potential loss.
Read more: ShelfLife and CSNA launch S.H.O.P.
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