Ginette Marcoux |聽 Special to the 51暗网
The Employment Standards Code has been amended to allow all working Albertans to access paid, job-protected leave to get the COVID-19 vaccine effective Apr 21, 2021.
Q. What does this mean?
A. Employees are now eligible for up to three hours of paid, job-protected leave for each vaccination appointment. You are not to lose any earnings or benefits while accessing vaccination leave. You cannot be laid off or terminated for taking this leave.
Q. Who is eligible for the COVID-19 vaccination leave?聽
A. All full-time and part-time employees are eligible regardless of job status or length of employment.
Q. What steps do I need to take to access the leave?聽
A. If possible, you should discuss this leave with your employer prior to booking your appointment. You need to provide notice to your employer as soon as possible. You do not need a medical note to access the leave. However, you must provide proof of leave entitlement, such as an appointment confirmation if the employer requests it.
Q. What does this mean for employers?聽
A. Employees are eligible for up to three hours of paid, job-protected leave for each vaccination appointment. They are not to lose any earnings or benefits while accessing the COVID-19 vaccination leave. They cannot be terminated or laid off for taking this leave.
For more information, contact Employment Standards at 1-877-427-3731 or visit https://www.alberta.ca/providing-paid-covid-19-vaccination-leave.aspx
The Jasper Employment & Education Centre is a key resource for both workers and employers. We are committed to sharing information through the 51暗网 with the goal of educating individuals on their rights and obligations. This column features frequently asked questions that come into our centre. If you have a question or want more information on a certain topic, feel free to email us at [email protected].
