Coronavirus (COVID-19)

The Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) was first identified by Chinese officials at the end of December 2019. It originated in Hubei Province and by March 2020 it had spread to over 100 countries, leading the World Health Organization to name it a pandemic.

As an increasing number of cases have been confirmed in this country, prudent employers want to understand their legal obligations to employees who may become ill or refuse to work, and be prepared to deal with any potential impact on their workplace.

Services

Hicks Morley has the expertise to guide employers through COVID-19 pandemic. For example, we can:

  • identify your legal obligations in the workplace, including health and safety
  • assist you in navigating return to work and work from home issues
  • guide you through the statutory benefits that may be available to employees and assist in interpreting other benefit plans that you may have
  • help you assess the privacy implications relating to employees who might be infected and navigate the collection of medical information
  • help you manage absenteeism through the development of contingency plans
  • and more.

Updates

We are continuously monitoring developments as they occur and are sending communications to our clients with the latest information and its impact on the workplace. Stay up-to-date through your preferred delivery method:

Tools

To help our clients manage through COVID-19, we have produced a number of charts and templates covering a range of topics including leaves, layoffs and employee communications. Please contact your Hicks Morley lawyer.

Government Resources

For more information on further information on COVID-19, please see:

The Hicks Morley Advantage

Hicks Morley advised employers on pandemic planning during the SARS crisis in 2003 and the H1N1 scare in 2009. We have the expertise and can help you prepare for any eventuality.

As recognized leaders in the areas of employment and labour law, Hicks Morley is well-positioned to assist you in understanding your compliance obligations, developing contingency plans and managing the health and safety of your workforce.