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Drone threat: do employees have to go to work and will they be paid?

​​​​​​​A drone threat can bring the working day to a sudden halt. What should an employee do? Should they go to work, and will they be paid? We’ve put together clear answers to the most common questions.

The drone threat – what should an employee do immediately?

If the authorities issue a warning about a drone threat:

  • stay indoors
  • avoid going outside

The authorities’ safety advice must always be followed as a matter of priority.

Should you go to work during a drone threat?

Not necessarily.

If the authorities advise you to stay indoors, you should not go to work.
If you’re unsure, contact your employer.

Can work be done remotely during a drone threat?

Often, yes.

Workplaces can organise work, for example:

  • remotely
  • at a different branch
  • by adjusting work shifts

Do you get paid during a drone threat?

As a general rule, the answer is often yes, but the situation is not entirely clear-cut. The social partners interpret the current labour legislation regarding the obligation to pay wages in different ways.

Finnish Confederation of Professionals STTK, Confederation of Finnish Industries EK and other central organisations recommend that employers pay wages even when work is prevented due to an official drone threat warning.

However, this is a recommendation, not a binding requirement.

What if an employer does not pay wages due to a drone threat?

Contact your trade union. The aim is to resolve the situation through negotiation, and if necessary, union members can seek legal assistance.

Can an employee stay at home because of a drone threat?

Yes, if:

  • the authorities issue a safety advisory
  • the employer instructs staff to stay at home

If an employee stays at home without being instructed to do so, they may not be paid.

What should you do in an unclear situation?

Proceed as follows:

  • check the authorities’ guidelines
  • ask your employer for guidance
  • contact the union if necessary
Safety comes first during a drone threat

Follow the guidance issued by the authorities, stay in touch with your employer and, if necessary, contact your trade union. Work and pay arrangements will be determined on a case-by-case basis, but help is available.