Sending Sick Employees Home: A Manager’s Guide
Telling a visibly unwell employee to go home protects the rest of the team, but it’s a conversation many managers find awkward. Handled clearly and kindly, it doesn’t have to be.
Before the conversation
Have a written sick leave policy in place before you need it. A documented standard makes the conversation about the policy, not a personal judgement call, and gives the employee clarity on what to expect around pay and process.
During the conversation
- Speak privately, not in front of colleagues
- Lead with concern for the employee, not just the team’s exposure risk
- Reference the policy directly rather than making it feel like a personal decision
- Be clear on practical next steps — pay, remote work options if applicable, and when to check in
After they leave
Treat the surfaces and shared equipment they were using — see our response protocol for a structured approach that applies to most contagious illness, not just COVID-19.
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This page provides general management guidance and is not legal advice. Employment obligations vary by jurisdiction — confirm current requirements with your local regulator or legal counsel.