Friday, November 22, 2013

Inclement weather policy

With winter weather upon us, it's time to review UW-Eau Claire's practices in the event severe weather strikes.In accordance with Ch. 36, Wisconsin Statutes, and delegated authority from the Board of Regents and UW System president, a chancellor has the authority to cancel classes, close an institution to the public, or completely close an institution to the public and employees.
In general, when inclement weather threatens operations at UW-Eau Claire, the university will remain open to the extent possible. If necessary, the chancellor may close the university to the public or cancel classes, but state employees will be expected to report to work.

Employees who accrue vacation, compensatory time or personal holidays may use the accrued leave if they are unable to make it to work, or if they are excused from work because emergency weather conditions make it unsafe remain at work. Per the Fair Labor Standards Act, employees also may make up lost time within the same week of the weather emergency.

If a severe weather situation occurs, local media will be made aware of any cancellations/closings, but their announcements are advisory only.

Should a decision be made to cancel classes, close the university to the public or completely close the university, official information will be transmitted via UW-Eau Claire's emergency notification system, which includes announcements on the university homepage, Facebook page and Twitter feed, among other notifications.