How to inform your employer of your medical absence / sick leave
Everyone of us will experience some form of illness or injury in our lifetime. Occasionally, an illness or injury will impact our abilities, daily activities, and work experiences. When this happens, the University of Waterloo is committed to making every reasonable effort to assist employees and provide appropriate workplace accommodation solutions. Sometimes, that accommodation may come in the form of a medical absence, or “sick leave”.
The Disability Management Guide provides critical information about the various roles and responsibilities during a medical absence/sick leave.
What steps do I need to take?
1. Communicate with your Supervisor
You are responsible for notifying your supervisor of your absence from work.
Please note: you are not required to share any medical information with your supervisor. Please only identify that you are medically absent, your first day absent, and - if known - your anticipated return to work date.
2. Documentation Requirements
For medical absences 5 business days (or more), the Sick Leave Return to Work Form (PDF) must be completed by your healthcare practitioner.
Completed forms / documentation can be submitted to OccupationalHealth@uwaterloo.ca and will be stored in alignment with confidentiality and privacy requirements.
Note: If you believe that your injury or illness arose out of, and in the course of your employment, please complete an Incident and Investigation Report Form with your supervisor. Medical aid and lost time injuries are managed by the Safety Office. Incident reports and Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) forms are to be sent to the Safety Office.
FAQ
What documentation do I need?
There are several forms that you could use to apply with our office that will assist us in exploring the supports and resources best suited to your needs/situation. Each form provides guidance on who may complete it. For more information, please go to the Documentation Information and Forms webpage.
What do I say to my Supervisor?
You are responsible for notifying your supervisor of your absence from work.
Please note: you are not required to share any medical information with your supervisor. Please only identify that you are medically absent, your first day absent, and - if known - your anticipated return to work date.
I have questions about my Sick Leave Benefit Eligibility
Please refer to the Sick Leave webpage for information about your sick leave benefit eligibility.
What Types of Absence and Leaves are available?
Please visit the types of Absences and Leaves webpage for more information about the types of absences and leaves available.