Most Commonly Asked Employment and COVID-19 Questions

Posted August 5, 2021

With a new variant of the COVID-19 virus making its way across the globe, many employees and employers are bringing up questions of workers’ rights once more. Take a look at these most commonly asked employment and COVID-19 questions.

Can I be forced to work during the COVID-19 pandemic/new variants?

Employers may require you to come to work during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, check with your local government to see if new mandates have arisen. However, if your employer has not created a safe workplace, you may have a claim to not re-enter the workplace.

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

Employers must have employment policies clearly communicated to employees about returning to work.

What should I do if I don’t provide paid sick leave to my employees during the COVID-19 pandemic?

While most employers are not required to provide paid sick leave, many employers have enacted emergency sick leave. In addition, The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA or Act) requires some employers to provide their employees with paid sick leave or extended family and medical leave for reasons related to COVID-19.

However, employers with fewer than 500 employees are eligible for 100% tax credits from the FFCRA and paid leave provided through December 31, 2020, up to certain limits.

What is the protocol when an employee is tested positive for COVID-19?

Employers should have clearly communicated employment policies for protocols when an employee has tested positive for COVID-19. This may include:

• Informing fellow employees of their possible exposure to COVID-19 in the workplace.
• Maintaining confidentiality as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Providing isolation guidelines that follow CDC recommended steps.

Do I still get paid if I have COVID-19?

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA or Act) requires certain employers to provide employees with paid sick leave and medical leave for specified reasons related to COVID-19.

Have Questions About Employee Rights? Call COVID-19 Injury Lawyers. 

COVID-19 Injury Lawyers can help you with any workplace disputes with your employer. We will help you fight to get the justice you need. Contact COVID-19 Injury Lawyers.