Can You Write an Employee Up for Calling in Sick?

Calling in sick is a common occurrence in the workplace. Most employees face illness at some point. Can an employer penalize an employee for taking a sick day? Let's clarify this topic.

Many companies recognize the importance of employee health. They understand that sick employees may struggle to perform effectively or could spread illness to others in the workplace.

In certain situations, excessive sick days or unusual patterns can raise concerns. Employers may request a doctor's note to verify the legitimacy of an absence. This approach helps balance trust and accountability.

Some employers have policies that allow them to write up employees for excessive absences, regardless of the reason. It is essential for these policies to be clear and consistently applied to all employees without discrimination.

Generally, it is uncommon for an employer to write up an employee solely for calling in sick. Yet, persistent absences without valid reasons can lead to penalties. Companies should maintain a balance between accommodating health needs and meeting operational requirements. Fair policies should be in place and followed consistently.

When genuinely ill, employees should feel empowered to take the necessary time off to recover.