February’s “snowmaggeddon” storm that trapped commuters in their cars for hours during evening rush hour, has prompted a new set of dismissal and closure notifications for federal employees aimed at preventing a repeat of such problems.

Office of Personnel Management Director John Berry announced the new procedures Thursday.

FederalNewsRadio.com reported that Berry admitted that the new snow policy “may create an embarrassment” and may lead to accusations of “overreacting,” but it was important to put safety first.

OPM amended its early departure options, to include two staggered departure options, an immediate departure, and a stay-in-place option.

As part of its overall snow policy, OPM continued to encourage agencies to consider establishing new telework agreements with its employees as well as stay connected by using social media.

OPM security lead Dean Hunter said that OPM’s snow policy decision should be online by 4 a.m. whenever one inch of snow or ice has fallen the night before.

The policy applies to all federal employees with offices inside I-495 (the Capital Beltway). Federal employees in surrounding suburbs should check with their agencies to see if they will follow the same guidance. The policy also does not apply to employees of the legislative branch, judicial branch, U.S. Postal Service, D.C. government, or private sector entities, including contractors.