can my work really discipline me for being off sick 4 times this year when i had a Drs line each time?

Answer 1

As long as the doctor said for you to be out, they can't do anything. And you can have a fun time in court with that one, but only if you keep the notes or get a record from the doctor's office that he said you could stay out. That is because if you are sick they are attempting to prevent spreading of the disease by keeping you away from other people until the sickness is no longer contagious. Your employer would do well to remember that if you come in sick, you might make the whole place sick and then he'll have real problems. You might want to say so, but try to be tactful, and not make it sound like he should know better (which would make you sound condescending, which is extremely aggravating to a boss). If you aren't sure you can do that, it might be easier to go ahead and skip saying so.

If however you stayed out based on an injury (like a sprained ankle or something like that), you could point out that he is placing your health and/or life in danger and that can get him sued as well (with a fairly good chance of you winning). Punishing you for trying to prevent workplace accidents (by avoiding going to work at a time when your injury may prevent you from avoiding accidents to yourself, or helping others avoid them) is a good way to get in legal trouble. Your employer is treading on dangerous legal ground here, a lawyer may help him to see it (or at least the threat of one). Just make sure you have the legal documentation or you'll be the one in financial trouble when you lose the case and still have to pay the lawyer.

Answer 2

It depends on the companies policy. The company I work for are very strict with absence. 3 Absences in a rolling year and you could be disciplined. I say Could because it depends on the absence.

If you have had Docs notes, they may just investigate your situation and see If there is anything they can do to help you get over your sickness (For example, they could be making you work stupid hours which could be making you ill) and then not take any action.

If you have been off 4 times with a hangover for example, they will probably discipline you! Every absence is judged on it's own merit.

I would check your handbook (assuming your company gave you a handbook) and check out their policy. It will be clearly labelled out in here. Otherwise your contract may tell you.

If all else fails, seek advice from your HR department. |They will explain the policy to you

Answer 3

They can't do anything if you have a Dr's note, a professional has seen you decided you not fit for work and signed you off, they cannot question a Dr

Answer 4

My work does a return to work interview and tries to figure out if you are having problems at work or if you were genuinely ill. They trying to make us cut down on sickies. Don't think they should discipline you but it will be on your record. Speak to your union and have them present at any meetings to make sure you don't feel intimidated.

Answer 5

They can do it if it is their policy. some employers are real cappy where worked in the medical profession we are not suppose to work with a fever bu call off and they treat you like a 2 year old

Answer 6

sick like a chilly or sick like... puke? i've got had 2 colds this year and 3 abdomen virus incidents, which i think of is extreme as nicely. i'm taking off to ask your self what's incorrect with me!

Answer 7

You must work for the same company that I do.

Answer 8

all they can do is discipline you for not fulfilling your contract and give you next steps and ask how can they help you .................... its not one of the big food retailers

Answer 9

you will have to look at your contract, if you produce a doctors note, i cant see how they can say anything. have a look on the acas site.
http://www.acas.org.uk/

Answer 10

i would fire you in an instant son