Flexibility and changes in job roles
As it is difficult to know in advance who will be required to take time off work, it is in companies’ and organisations’ own interest to take steps to create flexibility among their employees to ensure there is always someone available to perform any essential roles needed to keep the business running. Where possible, they may also consider organising remote working, including telecommuting.
Making provisions for job flexibility
As part of their business continuity plan, employers will assess and determine the minimum workforce and any posts and skills that are needed to keep the business going. For job posts that would require a replacement in the event of someone’s absence, they may ask other employees to be flexible and stand in for them. Information and training will be put in place beforehand for this purpose.
Changes to employment contracts
In certain cases, the need for flexibility or changes in job roles may require employers to amend one or more essential clauses in employment contracts: change in position, qualifications or workplace.
In these cases employers are obliged to inform the employee of the proposed change to their employment contract. If the employee accepts the changes, the initial contract will be amended as appropriate.
Collective bargaining agreements might influence the conditions in which contracts are changed.