Recent heavy snows and subsequent employee commuting problems prompted Daniel D. Cantor, director of personnel administration, to issue an inclement weather policy for all non-union employees this week.

Under the policy, workers who are absent or have to leave early because of bad weather conditions will not be charged for their absence but will be required to make up the work without pay at another time if the departmental supervisor so decides.

Cantor yesterday described this policy as "compensatory hour shifting" and an attempt to "strike a balance" between the necessity to "get the work done" and the safety of employees.

"We're trying to be fair to everyone," he said.

The policy states that "it is anticipated that staff members will make every effort consistent with their own safety to be at work, especially those responsible for the provision of essential services."

Essentials include the care of laboratory animals, food and kitchen services, and the maintenance of heat and light utilities, Cantor said. Snow removal is also, of course, an essential service during snowstorms, he added.