Acas has launched new guidance to help employers prepare for potential issues that could arise over the World Cup period, which will take place in Brazil between Thursday 12 June and Sunday 13 July. Acas advises employers to have agreements in place that cover requests for time off, sickness absence, website use during working hours or watching TV during popular sporting events to help ensure their businesses remain productive whilst keeping staff happy too. Top tips for employers to consider are:

– Be a little more flexible when allowing employees to book leave during this period;

– Have a more flexible working day, if practicable;

– Allow staff to listen to the radio or watch the TV or use smart phones/tablets to follow games, if possible;

– Re-emphasise the organisation's acceptable use of social media policy; and

– Remind employees that while 'spirits' can run high, anyone caught drinking at work or under the influence of alcohol in the workplace could be subject to disciplinary procedures.

According to Acas, following the guidance “can help managers get the best from their team players and avoid unnecessary penalties.” Let's hope the teams playing in the World Cup get similar advice!

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