BUSINESSES have been warned to make sure staff understand the impact of missing work for the World Cup.

Employment lawyer Collingwood Legal, which has offices in Newcastle, says firms must be aware of issues arising from workers watching the showpiece football event.

A YouGov poll found up to a quarter of young men are considering taking sick days during the month-long tournament, and highlighted potential problems over lateness, absenteeism and poor productivity.

Sarah Fitzpatrick, Collingwood associate solicitor, said companies must monitor the situation with a reasoned approach.

She said: “Matches won’t kick off until 5pm UK time at the earliest, which will at least mean most bosses don’t have to deal with games taking place in the middle of the working day.

“However, with many games starting at 11pm or 2am, there could be issues to deal with the next day that should be considered and addressed in advance, especially around policies on alcohol, lateness and unauthorised absence.

“People will obviously fall ill during the World Cup, or could find themselves running late for any number of reasons.

“However, managers must be extremely clear in ensuring staff know choosing to stay up late to watch a game isn’t an acceptable excuse for them not to be able to work properly, or indeed at all, the next day.”

Ms Fitzpatrick said firms must take a pragmatic approach to management.

She added: “Proper investigations should be carried out into any unauthorised absences before disciplinary action is considered.

“If any employee does turn up for work late without a valid explanation or is believed to be under the influence of alcohol, then the employer's normal disciplinary procedures should clearly be followed.”