Inclement Weather and Utilities Disruptions Skip to main content

Inclement Weather and Utilities Disruptions

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance for Brigham Young University–Hawaii (“BYU–Hawaii” or “university”) in managing disruptions to work and class environments due to inclement weather, utility outages, and other disruptions. This policy ensures the safety of employees and students while maintaining operational continuity.

2. Policy

Brigham Young University–Hawaii is a residential campus in a rural community often impacted by weather and utility disruptions. The safest place for students in a storm is usually on-campus. For these reasons campus rarely closes all operations. The President’s Council holds the right to close campus, and it is handled on a case-by-case basis.

3. Implementation

3.1 Classes

Classrooms and modes of instruction are unique to each class. In the event of disruption to the classroom environment, each faculty member, in consultation with their dean, determine whether to continue or cancel class. Faculty should communicate to their class about the cancellation as soon as possible.

3.2 Employment Considerations

3.2.1 Work Continuity During Disruptions

If a utility disruption extends beyond 2 hours, managers are responsible for determining which employees can continue working and which may need to be dismissed.

Each department, in conjunction with its vice president, should establish continuity plans to manage disruptions effectively.

3.2.2 Staff Dismissal and Office Closures

Hourly employees should clock out if possible. Employees unable to work due to office closures or extended utility disruptions may:

  • Use available leave balances (e.g., vacation leave). 
  • Make alternative work arrangements as approved by their supervisor. 
  • If remote work is feasible, employees should continue working under their supervisor’s direction. 

4. Related Policies and Procedures

Details

Policy Owner: Human Resources Director
Executive Sponsors: Administrative Vice President

Created: 2/1/2025
Last Reviewed: 04/29/2025
Last Modified: 05/01/2025

Next Review: 04/29/2027

Full revision history maintained by the Office of Compliance & Ethics.