Working With Sick Colleagues & COVID Policies: Global News Interview

As the summer months come to an end, some doctors and health officials have expressed concerns over a looming cold and flu season, as well as rising COVID-19 cases. Unlike the past few years, Ontarians no longer have the protection of a paid sick leave program which allows employees to remain at home if exhibiting symptoms. What can employees do to protect their well-being in the workplace?

Jon Pinkus, an Ontario employment lawyer and Partner at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP spoke to Global News’ Sean Previl and urged employees to communicate with their employers.

“If an employee does have such a concern, the first thing they should do is speak with management,” said Pinkus. “In Ontario, the Ministry of Labour expects employees to try and resolve things before taking things further, and determine if there’s a practical solution.”

Pinkus went on to explain that if the situation was not resolved, an inspector would be brought into the workplace to ensure that employers were following provincial health guidelines. Pinkus also reiterated the importance of having policies in place to ensure a healthy and safe work environment.

“It is always good to have if you want to prevent disputes from arising,” said Pinkus. “It’s very specific exactly what’s going to happen if someone is sick with COVID and someone is unable to attend the workplace. Here are the steps we want to take, here are your rights under this policy, then an employee doesn’t have to think, ‘Is this legal under the Occupational Health and Safety Act?’”

Pinkus concluded that implementing policies would allow employees to determine if their workplace is a good fit or if they are better suited for another organization.