Employees in Russia may have a valid excuse for arriving late to work if they are delayed by long queues at filling stations, according to the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Russia (FNPR).

The union's communications department said that lengthy lines at filling stations can be considered an emergency or force majeure circumstance, similar to public transport cancellations or the need for urgent medical care, The Caspian Post reports via TASS.

However, employees are advised to notify their employer as soon as possible if they expect to be late and explain the reason for the delay.

The Federation of Independent Trade Unions also noted that employers may request supporting evidence or documentation confirming that the delay was caused by force majeure circumstances before deciding whether to accept the explanation.