international employment law firm alliance L&E Global
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Brazil

5. Managing COVID-19-Related Employee Issues

Management of quarantine, childcare and medical leave for employees affected by COVID-19.

Brazil does not recognise family leave, administrative leave or unpaid parental leave. However, employers may choose to adopt unpaid leave if requested by employees. Employees affected by COVID-19 will be on medical leave. Employers are responsible for the payment of the regular remuneration during the first 15 days of leave, and the social security agency is responsible for the payment of a sick leave allowance for the remaining period of the medical leave. Depending on the terms of the applicable collective bargaining agreement, employers may have to pay a supplementary sick leave allowance.

Employees who fear infection and refuse to work.

We recommend verifying if there is any valid reason other than a “fear of infection”. Depending on the situation, employers may agree on remote working or may demand the immediate return to in-office work. Disciplinary measures may also be adopted.

Disclosure of employees who are infected.             

Individuals who may have been exposed to suspected or confirmed cases of infection, should be advised to monitor their health for 14 days from the last day of possible contact. However, in general, the name of the infected employee should not be disclosed; employers should communicate just the department where he/she works.

 

Any questions

Ask our member firm TozziniFreire in Brazil