Sick days are a common occurrence in the workplace, but can an employer in Alberta request a sick note from an employee?

Let’s talk about the rights and responsibilities of both employers and employees when it comes to doctors notes.

Can an Employer Ask for a Sick Note in Alberta?

Yes, in Alberta, employers can ask employees to provide a sick note.

However, there are specific guidelines and conditions that must be adhered to:

1. The medical information requested should relate to the operation of the workplace and the employee’s job duties.
2. The request should be relevant to the time period of the related absence. Asking for past medical history is generally not allowed.

For more details, refer to the Alberta Government’s Official Website.

Guidelines for Requesting a Sick Note in Alberta

• Employers can request a medical certificate for any period of general illness an employee takes.
• If an employee incurs a fee for obtaining a proper medical certificate or other satisfactory proof of illness, the employer should reimburse the employee up to a maximum of fifty dollars ($50.00). See our article answering “Are Doctors Notes Free in Alberta?”
• A proper medical certificate should generally include a certification by a licensed physician, psychiatrist, or midwife that the employee is unable to attend work for medical reasons, the dates the employee is unable to attend work, and the expected return date.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sick Notes in Alberta

• What should a medical certificate include?
  • A medical certificate should generally include a certification by a licensed physician, psychiatrist, or midwife that the employee is unable to attend work for medical reasons, the dates the employee is unable to attend work, and the expected return date.
• Can an employer ask for past medical history?
  • Generally, employers cannot ask for an employee’s past medical history when requesting a sick note.
• Who covers the cost of obtaining a sick note?
  • If there’s a fee associated with obtaining a medical certificate, the employer should reimburse the employee up to a maximum of fifty dollars ($50.00).

Balancing Rights and Responsibilities in Alberta

While employers in Alberta have the right to request a sick note, it’s essential to ensure that the request is made within the guidelines set by the province.

Both employers and employees should be aware of their rights and responsibilities to maintain a harmonious workplace environment.

In Summary: Key Points on Sick Notes in Alberta

• Employers in Alberta can request a sick note from employees.
• The request for medical information should be relevant to the employee’s absence and job duties.
• Past medical history is generally off-limits.
• A proper medical certificate should detail the reason for the absence, the duration, and the expected return date.
• Employers should reimburse employees up to $50.00 if there’s a fee associated with obtaining the medical certificate.