Maintaining Positive Attendance Policies.

​

With many businesses extending their paid time off policies to cover COVID-19 illnesses for those who had not previously had sick-leave benefits, some are finding that a few employees are “playing the system” and impacting overall employee morale.

 

This can be a touchy situation as it is a matter of striking a balance between not being taken advantage of as a company while recognizing that some employees are still scared and worried and want to be safe. And challenges remain in both attaining doctor’s notes and visiting their offices when not really necessary.

 

With that in mind, TAG recommends:

• Remind employees about your company’s commitment to protect their health and wellbeing.

• If someone is calling out sick due to COVID-19, they need to speak with HR to explain what is going on – not just leave a voice mail.

• Employees also should be told to call their doctor for their assessment as to if a COVID-19 test is needed or the illness can be diagnosed as COVID-19 through a phone-based clinical assessment.

• If an employee claims to have been tested, they need to share the results of the test because they should not return to work until they are no longer infectious.

• If they say they have spoken to a doctor, HR should talk to them to attain more details about the doctor’s assessment, recommendations, etc.

• If they are staying home because they are worried about getting sick at work, the conversation with HR should focus on this and outcomes should align with company policies and EEOC or ADA guidance.

 

In addition to this medical perspective, however, businesses need to consider any overlaying EEOC, HIPPA or ADA issues that would apply to how each issue is handled. We also recommend that you consult with your legal advisor on your strategy.