Employers Seek Ebola Advice

Ed Foulke was quoted on 90.1 WABE on October 30, 2014. The article “Employers Seek Ebola Advice” discussed how a number of businesses are trying to figure out how to keep workers safe and to make sure they don’t get sued if an Ebola case pops up in their office.

Ed was quoted on the various industries that are concerned about the Ebola outbreak.

“The airline industry is concerned about this, particularly with folks responsible for cleaning the airplanes after it lands. We’re seeing white collar industries, insurance and other industries, where people may travel and come back to the U.S.” Ed said.

Ed advised businesses to consider the Occupational Safety and Health Act when making Ebola-related decisions.

“Are you exposing your employees to a health hazard?”

Ed noted businesses could potentially be sued under the Americans with Disabilities Act if they ask an employee questions about their health or tell them to see a doctor. In a lawsuit, companies would have to prove they were acting due to a business necessity or the employee posed a threat to others. But Ed said employers shouldn’t panic.

“It’s not developed into any kind of a pandemic type of situation or national health crisis here, so obviously there’s some concerns. Employers need to take it seriously. They need to prepare, and also continue to monitor the CDC website as to the advice they’re putting out.”

To read the full article, please visit WABE.