colds, flu and other illnesses

From time to time, we all get ill, and whether or not we caught that cold in the office, it will certainly affect our work (and our colleagues!) Read on to find out what you and your employer can do to best manage routine sickness in the workplace.

• Am I allowed time off work to see my doctor?  more...
• Do I need a doctor's certificate?  more...
• My child is sick and I need time to look after him/her, but my employer is refusing. Do I have any rights?  more...
• My employer has warned me about my level of sickness absence although I have medical certificates. What are the implications?  more...
• Do I get paid when absent on sick leave?  more...
• I've been off sick for a long time. What should I do?  more...
• In my workplace loads of us get colds. Could it be caused by our ultra-chilly air conditioning?  more...
• Can our company try to save money by leaving the heating switched off later and later every year, and telling us to 'wrap-up'?  more...
• We are told we can only have two days off sick a month. Is this right?  more...
• We have 'duvet days' but they come off our annual leave?  more...
• Our bonus scheme pays out more if you haven't had any days off sick. Is this right?  more...
• Should my company be able to phone me on my work mobile if I'm home sick?  more...
• I'm losing my voice. Can I do it any damage by still working?  more...
• How can I avoid catching my colleagues' winter illnesses?  more...
• What's the best way to shake a cold?  more...
• Should my employer offer me a flu-jab?  more...
• I often have to work outside, even when it's cold. Is there a minimum temperature for working?  more...

further information

Are you a 'mucus-trooper'?

How do you handle minor illnesses at work? Take the workSMART online quiz now to see if you're a 'mucus-trooper' or a 'model patient'.

The TUC’s sickness absence and rehabilitation web pages, in the Health and Safety section, have guidance, news and advice. tuc.org.uk/h_and_s

Hazards magazine has information on sickness absence and rehabilitation, including news and resources. hazards.org/rehab, hazards.org/sickness

The UNISON publication Making us better: Sickness absence agreements: A guide for branches and safety representatives is available for download in the resources section of the UNISON website. unison.org.uk/resources