How do I deal with staff who come to work feeling unwell?
Some people were taught to believe that coming to work even when feeling ill is part of a good work ethic.
Others may be concerned about important work not getting done during their absence, and so force themselves to come to work.
Still others, when working for an employer who does not provide sick leave benefits, simply can’t afford the smaller paycheques that result from time away from work.
In all cases, talk to staff before the flu season hits. Explain to them that it is better for everybody if they stay home if they are showing flu-like symptoms. That will help to protect colleagues and clients from getting sick, and as well as provide the rest they need to recover more quickly.
If staff come to work showing flu-like symptoms, they need to be sent home until they have been symptom-free for at least 24 hours (failing to do so creates a health risk for other workers). They should also call 811 if they have any questions about symptoms or treatment.
Yukon Workers' Compensation Health and Safety Board
