H1N1 Flu Pandemic and the Workplace
What is H1N1 Flu?H1N1 is a strain of the influenza virus. It causes a respiratory illness with symptoms similar to those of the seasonal flu.How will H1N1 affect workplaces?It is unclear at this time how severe an H1N1 Pandemic may be. All Manitobans are encouraged to use the precautions outlined by Manitoba Health and Health Canada to help slow the spread of the virus.Manitoba businesses are encouraged to have an emergency preparedness plan in place to deal with the possible affects. Businesses can find a guide on creating a plan at www.manitoba.ca/influenza/pandemic. There could be a lot of employees who will not be able to attend work because of the flu. Employers should be aware of this fact and be making plans to deal with the situation. How can we prevent the spread of H1N1 Flu in the workplace?To help prevent the spread of the flu:
Employers are encouraged to be reasonable during this critical time. Since there will be an increase in demand for healthcare services, it may not be reasonable to require doctor’s notes for absences due to the flu. Workers should judge their need to see a doctor based on their symptoms and the suggestions of Manitoba Health or Health Canada. More information on ways employers and employees can fight the spread of the flu can be found at www.fightflu.ca a website of the Public Health Agency of Canada and at the Province of Manitoba Website www.manitoba.ca/flu Are there workplace safety issues regarding the H1N1 Flu Pandemic?Yes, employers and employees have rights and responsibilities in relation to workplace safety and health. To find more information regarding workplace safety and the flu see the Worksafe Bulletin at:http://safemanitoba.com/uploads/bulletins/bltn_262_sept_17_2009.pdf or visit the Workplace Safety and Health Division website at: www.safemanitoba.com Does the Employment Standards Code apply during an H1N1 flu pandemic?Yes, the Employment Standards Code does apply during pandemics. Employers and employees are encouraged to do whatever they can to prevent the spread of the flu. Employers and employees should expect workplaces to be short staffed and be flexible in dealing with situations that arise.Employers and employees with specific questions should contact Employment Standards at 945-3352 or 1-800-821-4307 to discuss the issues. For more information contact the Employment Standards Branch:
This is a general overview and the information used is subject to change. For detailed information, please refer to current legislation including The Employment Standards Code and The Worker Recruitment and Protection Act, or contact the Employment Standards Branch to ask for advice. Date Published: February 18, 2010 |
