UPDATE: Vaccinated South African workers with side effects get paid sick leave
A look into one of the updates when it comes to the lockdown rules in the workplace for workers who get the vaccine.
There has been much contention around the vaccine for many people, it doesn't help that many people have responded differently to the vaccine and then the stigma that is attached to the concept of vaccinations.
Everyone is entitled to their own views and beliefs and therefore we cannot force anyone into anything. However, it is blanketed view from many medical professionals that getting the vaccine is better than not getting it.
Read more: KZN sounds off on vaccine: "Only after the President takes it LIVE on TV will I take the vaccine"
Whether or not you have decided to get the vaccine or not, it is still vital to stay informed of the updates when it comes to the labour regulations, in this regard.
We gave you a brief update recently about the updated lockdown rules when it comes to employees and employers which you can read here.
According to the new lockdown regulations, employers should make sure that employees are well informed about getting the vaccine and if they decide to, then relevant transport should be provided for employees to the vaccination site.
In addition to that, the employees are entitled to paid sick leave if they experience side effects after receiving the vaccine. The employee can produce their vaccination certificate as a form of proof and don't need to produce the traditional medical certificate.
The amendments also require employers to undertake risk assessments which limit Covid-19 exposure in the workplace.
Previous versions of the labour department directive included points on employees making sure that there was a "phased approach" for the return of workers to the workplace, also ensuring that the appropriate "personal protective equipment", also known as PPE that was being used meets the official requirements.
In addition, employees wer to ensure that they were being efficient and responsible in communicating the COVID-19 outbreaks, making sure that all employees were being screened and that social distancing was being enforced in workspaces.
The vaccine rollout has been highlighted in the recent update and employers are now responsible for identifying higher-risk employees, with reference to age and comorbidities. Under the Constitution, employees are allowed to refuse vaccination.
Employees must also be made aware of the benefits and potential side effects of the Covid-19 vaccine. It’s the responsibility of the employer to raise awareness by distributing leaflets and notices in the workplace.
All in all, it's important to stay informed when it comes to the vaccine and it's benefits, it's also vital to keep informed with your employer and make sure that the updates are being enforced from both sides.
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