RETURN TO WORK PROTOCOL
The World Health Organization raised the level of
influenza pandemic alert to phase 4 (of 6) which
indicates confirmation of sustained human-to-human
transmission related to the swine flu. This higher
phase of pandemic alert indicates that the
likelihood of a pandemic has increased, but not that
a pandemic is inevitable.
Based on this and all other information currently
available, we ask that all employees returning from
travel to Mexico, over the next two weeks, work from
home until they have determined that they are free
of any flu-like symptoms for 72 hours. Unionized
employees should also remain at home until they are
symptom-free for 72 hours; this time will be paid.
As previously communicated, symptoms are largely
similar to seasonal influenza (fever, headache, dry
cough, sore throat, aches, chills and weakness).
Reports of swine flu symptoms have also included
vomiting and diarrhea.
Employees who choose to depart for Mexico after
today will also be asked to remain away from work
after their return, until they have remained
symptom-free for 72 hours, but time lost from work
will not be compensated.
In these circumstances, it is also suggested that
business-related air travel and large meetings be
cancelled or deferred if at all possible, until this
situation clarifies.
Andrew Shields
Vice President
Human Resources & Industrial Relations
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Click here for on-going information on swine
flu |