Is the employee entitled to leave in the event of a natural disaster?

Verified 20 April 2021 - Directorate for Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)

Yes, an employee who lives or works in an area affected by a natural disaster is entitled to leave.

This leave allows the employee to participate in the activities of organizations providing assistance to victims of natural disasters. The leave is unpaid.

The leave may be taken in one or more steps. Its maximum duration is 20 days a year unless there is a more favorable agreement, company collective agreement, agreement or branch agreement.

Of treaty provisions determine the time limits within which the employee shall submit his request for leave. In the absence of any provisions, the employee informs the employer (in particular by letter) RAR: titleContent) of his willingness to take such leave at least 48 hours before the start of the leave. In case of emergency, the leave may be taken with 24 hours' notice.

The employer may refuse to grant the natural disaster leave if it is considered that it will be detrimental to the operation of its company. Reasons must be given for such refusal and notified to the employee and shall act after consulting the Social and Economic Committee (ESC).

The refusal of the employer may be challenged before the prud'homme council which shall decide as a last resort.

Please note

the duration of the leave cannot be counted against the duration of the annual paid leave.