As winter weather threatens North Texas, many workers are left weighing job expectations against personal safety, especially when roads turn icy or power outages begin to spread.
While schools and government offices often announce closures early, expectations for private-sector employees can be less clear, leaving many to wonder whether they’re expected to commute, work remotely, or stay home.
In Texas, most employment is at-will, meaning employers generally set attendance policies unless they conflict with labor laws or contractual agreements. That said, labor experts consistently emphasize that safety comes first, particularly during severe weather events that make travel dangerous. Employers may ask employees to report to work, but workers are not legally required to risk their safety on icy roads, especially if conditions are deemed hazardous by local authorities.
Remote work has become a key option during winter weather, especially for office-based employees. Many companies now have established work-from-home protocols that can be activated during weather emergencies, allowing operations to continue without putting workers on the road. Employees are encouraged to communicate early with supervisors if remote work is possible and to clarify expectations before conditions worsen.
For jobs that cannot be done remotely, such as healthcare, utilities, public safety, and some retail or service positions, employers often have contingency plans in place. These may include delayed start times, reduced staffing, on-site accommodations, or transportation assistance. In those cases, workers should ask what flexibility exists and what support the employer can provide if travel becomes unsafe.
Safety-first policies are increasingly common, particularly after past winter storms exposed the risks of forcing employees onto untreated roads. Many companies now allow workers to use paid time off, make up hours later, or shift schedules rather than penalize absences tied to severe weather. Employees should review their company’s inclement weather policy or employee handbook to understand how absences, pay, and discipline are handled during emergencies.
Communication is critical on both sides. Employers are urged to clearly state expectations and any changes to schedules as early as possible, while employees should notify supervisors if road conditions, power outages, or family obligations make reporting to work unsafe or impossible. Waiting until the last minute can create confusion and unnecessary risk.
Experts also remind workers that no job is worth serious injury. If conditions deteriorate quickly, employees should prioritize personal safety, document road or weather conditions if needed, and keep lines of communication open with their employer. In extreme cases, emergency declarations or official travel warnings can further support decisions to stay off the roads.
As winter weather approaches, workers are encouraged to plan ahead, confirm expectations early, and make safety the top priority. Clear communication and flexibility can help both employees and employers navigate dangerous conditions without adding unnecessary risk.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube