How should employers handle employees under quarantine orders beyond sick leave?

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Employers Should Provide Additional Remuneration for Employees on Extended Quarantine

Employers are encouraged to provide additional remuneration to employees who are under quarantine orders that extend beyond their eligible paid sick leave or hospitalization periods. This measure aims to foster and maintain harmonious relations between employers and employees. Furthermore, employees placed under quarantine or home surveillance orders should not be compelled to utilise their annual leave entitlement to cover the quarantine duration.
Medical Examinations and Covid-19 Related Leave

Section 60F of the Employment Act 1955 mandates that employers bear the cost of medical examinations for their employees. In cases where an employee is confirmed to have contracted Covid-19, employers are obligated to provide paid sick leave or cover hospitalization expenses. This provision ensures that employees receive necessary medical attention and financial support during their recovery from the infection.
Handling Extended Quarantine Periods

For employees whose quarantine orders exceed the entitlements for paid sick leave or hospitalization, employers are advised to offer additional financial compensation. While the Act does not explicitly stipulate the amount or nature of this remuneration, the encouragement is to provide something to sustain a positive employment relationship during challenging circumstances. This approach aligns with maintaining industrial harmony.
Protection Against Termination During Slowdowns

In situations where business slowdowns necessitate workforce reductions or terminations, employers are guided by the Code of Conduct for Industrial Harmony. The Employment Act 1955, through Section 60E (1B), recommends that employers take reasonable steps to avoid terminating employment. This implies exploring alternative measures before resorting to dismissals, thereby protecting employees' livelihoods.

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How should employers handle employees under quarantine orders beyond sick leave?

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