H1N1 and Workplace Conflict

On a daily basis, we hear media reports about H1N1 and its damaging effect on communities around the world.

But what does H1N1 have to do with Management Matters and the resolution of workplace conflict?

Commonly, workplace conflict is rooted in a fundamental disagreement over the substance or implementation of workplace policies and procedures. 

The best way to avoid such workplace conflict is to have a clearly articulated overtime policy that is implemented in a consistent and fair manner.

Similarly, there has been increasing discussion and concern about H1N1 and its potential effect on employees, should there be an outbreak at a particular workplace. 

Will employees be entitled to sick leave if they are asymptomatic but choose to stay at home? 

What if they are requested to stay at home? Will they be entitled to work from home in the event of a quarantine? 

Who determines whether and when they will be permitted to return to active employment at the work site?

Management should explore and resolve these issues now and advise employees of their rights and obligations should H1N1 become an issue. If this does not happen, the uncertainty surrounding H1N1 will manifest itself in all types of workplace conflict, from morale issues and informal disagreements to formal grievances and complaints.

Contact Marli Rusen for assistance in developing comprehensive policies on H1N1 and other pressing workplace issues.