Allow flexible working during Olympic Games, Acas tells companies

Published on 16/07/2012 00:00

The conciliation service Acas has urged employers to consider allowing staff to work flexibly during the Olympics amid research showing concern about disruption.

A survey of 1,000 smaller firms by printing giant Lexmark showed that over two thirds were worried about travel and other problems, and half did not have a policy on flexible or remote working. More than one in ten said they planned to leave the decision until just before the Olympics begin in less than two weeks’ time.

Meanwhile Acas published new guidance aimed at minimising disruption to business, as well as catering for fans. Staff could be allowed to watch popular events on television during agreed times, it was suggested.

Firms should ask their staff about their plans for the Olympics and make it clear what the priorities of the business were, said Acas.

The guide added that some workers would get fed up with the “fuss” over the Games.