E-150 Inclement Weather

The College is committed to the safety and welfare of its community, and inclement weather can jeopardize this for the Students and Employees. The President/District Director or designee is responsible for making decisions regarding adjustments to the College’s standard daily operations up to and including closing campus. This decision is based on careful monitoring of weather conditions and consultation with relevant authorities. 

This Policy outlines the framework to be followed when severe inclement weather conditions require adjustments to the College’s standard daily operations. In the case of severe inclement weather, the College closes College Premises but remains open for business.

When the College closes College Premises but remains open for business, Employees will be expected to work remotely. When inclement weather is predicted, Employees should plan to ensure they can provide services and work effectively from a remote location. Supervisors should work with Employees to determine typical work assignments when the Employee is working remotely due to inclement weather. Employees should work with their supervisor to develop a plan to continue student instruction.

Employees unable to work remotely should use vacation or personal leave, if eligible, or take the day without pay.

If an Employee has prescheduled leave days and cannot work remotely when the College Premises are closed due to inclement weather, leave time will be charged to the Employee.

OPERATIONAL AND SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

In the event that the College Premises remain open during inclement weather, supervisors should ensure that sufficient Employees are working on the College Premises to provide regular services and support the College Community consistent with departmental continuity business plans. However, no one is asked to risk personal injury to report to work or class. Employees and Students should use discretion and caution regarding their safety. Students are expected to follow the guidance provided in course syllabi. Employees must notify their supervisors if they can’t report to work or will report late. Employees who do not report to work in this situation may work remotely with supervisor approval, use vacation or personal leave, if eligible, or take the day without pay.

COMMUNICATION

If inclement weather requires adjustments, the College will promptly communicate any changes to its standard daily operations. Information will be disseminated through official channels, including, but not limited to, email notifications, website updates, and text alerts, as applicable.

The College Community can receive information about college closures through SafeAlert text messaging, local radio and television broadcast media, or by visiting blackhawk.edu.

DEFINITIONS

Inclement Weather: Severe weather conditions that place the health and safety of Students, Employees, and or the public at risk.