As storms and floods once again threaten Britain, employers are being urged to watch out for staff using this as an excuse for a day off work.

According to a YouGov survey commissioned by workplace consultancy Croner, 8% of employees would use bad weather as an opportunity for not going into work.

The research found that men were the most likely to use the weather as an excuse for absence, with 9% of men admitting to doing this compared to 6% of women.

Those working in Scotland are the most likely to stay at home (12%) while employees in London are the least likely (5%). Those over the age of 55 are the least likely to get stuck at home, the research added.

Croner is warning that employees failing to turn up for work during inclement weather or arriving late could have a detrimental effect on productivity and on the motivation of those who have made it in.

But the organisation is reminding employers that while they are well within their rights to dock employees' pay, they should be seeking more reasonable alternatives to get staff into work.

"Although ultimately there needs to be flexibility from employers when extreme weather sets in, staff also need be aware of the consequences of using bad weather as a reason not to turn up to work," said Jo Pitts, employment expert at Croner.

"Employees should thoroughly read through contracts (or adverse weather policies if there is one already in place) and obey the terms and conditions of this for when bad weather arrives. Failure to do so could result in serious disciplinary action if employees are found to be taking advantage and making it a regular occurrence.

"Bad weather can create workplace stress as well as uncertainty for both employers and employees, not to mention the financial impact with loss of hours. Employers can reduce this loss of time, money and stress by enforcing well communicated guidelines detailing how to handle any weather related absences."