Sick days should be used when needed

Staying well while working from home

A joint message from Human Resources and Occupational Health posted on Daily Bulletin May 19

Many of us are working from home in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. For some of us, working from home is a new experience. For those of us who have children at home, this adds another layer of complexity. It goes without saying that these are different times, which require new routines.

Sick days

As always, the University's priority is the safety and wellbeing of our employees. Employees are not expected to work when they are unwell, and this expectation has not changed in the current remote working environment.

If you are unwell, get the rest you need. While it might be tempting to continue working due to proximity to your home workspace, please follow our regular sick leave process. This includes not working, notifying your manager that you are unwell and entering your time away in Workday. If your absence is greater than five days, contact a member of our Disability Management Team, and they will guide you on next steps.

Wellness resources

In addition to not working when you are unwell, we want to ensure you look after yourself while you are working. The Covid-19 Employee Toolkit is an excellent resource provided by our Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP) provider, Homewood Health, to support you during this time. Topics include managing stress, building resilience, dealing with financial stress, work life balance, and more.

If you are struggling with your mental health during these changing times, reach out for support through Human Resources, Occupational Health, EFAP Homewood Health, Here247, and Wellness Together Canada.

Stay safe, stay connected.