Labor Attorney Nancy Lassen Discusses Coronavirus Exposures and How Employees Can Protect Their Rights

Willig, Williams & Davidson partner Nancy B. G. Lassen was quoted by The Philadelphia Inquirer on the workplace safety issue of the new coronavirus exposures. Many more workplace exposures will likely occur as the economy gradually re-opens.

There are no laws that specifically require employers to inform workers about a positive case in the workplace. Employers are barred by the Americans with Disabilities Act from revealing the identity of a worker who tested positive, however, they can ask for consent from the worker to reveal their identity so their coworkers know if they’ve been exposed.

Lassen suggests workers get together to ask your employer if there are any workers who have coronavirus symptoms that you may have been exposed to. Though this is still not foolproof, as individuals can be asymptomatic.

“If your employer refuses, you should start rallying your coworkers to request the same information. Start a petition,” Lassen said. “Publicize your dispute. Consider walking out or going on strike, like workers in meatpacking plants and Amazon warehouses have.”

It’s important that employees act with or on behalf of their coworkers because that will ensure protection under the National Labor Relations Act, which says workers acting together to try to improve their working conditions cannot be retaliated against.

To read the full article, visit the Inquirer.

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