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What if an employee refuses to come to work for fear of infection?

Admin

What if an employee refuses to come to work for fear of infection?

Your policies, that have been clearly communicated, should address this.

  • Educating your workforce is a critical part of your responsibility.
  • Local and state regulations may address what you have to do and you should align with them.

    • Can I be forced to work during the COVID-19 pandemic?

    Generally, your employer may require you to come to work during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, some government emergency orders may affect which businesses can remain open during the pandemic. Under federal law, you are entitled to a safe workplace. Your employer must provide a safe and healthful workplace.

    Am I eligible for PUA benefits if I quit my job because of COVID-19?

    There are multiple qualifying circumstances related to COVID-19 that can make an individual eligible for PUA, including if the individual quits his or her job as a direct result of COVID-19. Quitting to access unemployment benefits is not one of them.

    Under what health conditions should an employee not enter the workspace during the COVID-19 pandemic?

    Consider encouraging individuals planning to enter the workplace to self-screen prior to coming onsite and not to attempt to enter the workplace if any of the following are present:

    • Symptoms of COVID-19
    • Fever equal to or higher than 100.4°F*
    • Are under evaluation for COVID-19 (for example, waiting for the results of a viral test to confirm infection)
    • Have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and not yet cleared to discontinue isolation

    Am I eligible for Unemployment Insurance benefits if I quite my job during COVID-19 pandemic?

    No, typically that employee would not be eligible for regular unemployment compensation or PUA. Eligibility for regular unemployment compensation varies by state but generally does not include those who voluntarily leave employment.

    Am I eligible for unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic?

    See full answerEach state sets its own unemployment insurance benefits eligibility guidelines, but you usually qualify if you:

    • Are unemployed through no fault of your own. In most states, this means you have to have separated from your last job due to a lack of available work.
    • Meet work and wage requirements. You must meet your state’s requirements for wages earned or time worked during an established period of time referred to as a “base period.” (In most states, this is usually the first four out of the last five completed calendar quarters before the time that your claim is filed.)
    • Meet any additional state requirements. Find details of your own state’s program.