What an Employer needs to know about COVID-19 and Hiring
The EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) recently provided guidance for employers who are currently hiring and what affect COVID-19 has on the on-boarding of new employees. Historically, EEOC has been a strong proponent of employee Rights and what an employer can and cannot do when evaluating applicants for employment. With the COVID-19 pandemic, the EEOC is giving employers some flexibility when on-boarding a new employee.
The EEOC has issued very helpful Q&A material to help employers make wise employment decisions.
As an example:
Can an employer screen an applicant for COVID-19 symptoms? Yes!
Can an employer withdraw an offer of employment if the applicant is symptomatic of COVID-19? Yes!
Can an employer withdraw an offer of employment from someone who is 65 years of age or older, or who is pregnant, because they are a greater COVID-19 risk? No!
EEOC has offered other guidance in the areas as it relates to COVID-19:
Disability-Related Inquiries and Medical Exams
Confidentiality of Medical Information
Reasonable Accommodations
Furloughs and Layoffs
… and much more!
For more detailed information please visit EEOC .