CNV labor union: Over 40% of Dutch workers feel unsafe commuting during snowstorms
More than four in 10 workers say they feel unsafe commuting to and from work during this week of heavy snow and icy conditions, and more than one in five report that their employer shows no understanding of travel difficulties caused by the weather. Two‑thirds say no adjustments have been made to working hours, according to a report by labor union CNV based on a survey of nearly 2,200 workers.
Additionally, 60 percent of those surveyed cannot work from home and must brave snow and slippery roads to get to their jobs.
The extreme winter weather comes after several days of widespread snowfall that brought significant snow cover across much of the Netherlands, leading to hazardous travel conditions, code orange weather warnings, and disruptions to flights, trains, and road traffic. Some areas recorded fresh snow accumulations of several centimeters, with temperatures dropping well below freezing and wind chills near –10 degrees during parts of the week.
Thirty‑five percent of respondents said their commute this week is at least 30 minutes longer than normal, 23 percent said it takes them twice as long as usual, and 5 percent reported commute times three times longer than normal. Thirty‑one percent said they were seriously exhausted from commuting in the snow.
“Workers are currently keeping the Netherlands running: in healthcare, retail, garages, childcare, logistics, and transport, everyone ensures that everything keeps moving. Millions of workers head out every day because they have no choice. It would be beneficial if they felt supported by their employers, but unfortunately, that is not the case for many,” said Piet Fortuin, CNV chairman.
Employers have not adjusted working hours in 66 percent of cases. “Leaving just half an hour earlier or starting a bit later can make the difference between safe and unsafe travel. Days are short, and traveling in the dark is more dangerous than in daylight. We urge employers to be flexible. If possible, ensure that employees can travel during daylight hours,” the CNV stated.
