Author Topic: Self Quarantine when job is considered essential  (Read 997 times)

Edmundjb

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Self Quarantine when job is considered essential
« on: March 30, 2020, 01:38:51 PM »
I have a question, it's at the end.

I work at a company that is considered essential by the department of homeland security. This is the guide my company gave us to show that. https://www.cisa.gov/identifying-critical-infrastructure-during-covid-19

Not to give out too much information, I work at a company that manufactures parts for the aerospace defense industry. I personally don't believe that my job is essential to the short term well being of the country, but certainly the long term health it does. I sent this email to my boss.

"I have taken some time to contemplate the current situation happening in the world with the spread of Covid-19. I have decided that it has become necessary to self quarantine myself until such a time that it is safe to return to work and other activities of daily living.

The reason for my decision is given the nature of the virus, I would consider myself a high risk individual as I have asthma and this virus is a respiratory illness. But another more compelling reason is that I live with my mother and she herself just a year ago battled lung cancer and she also has stage 4 COPD. If I contract the virus, I'm fairly confident I would survive, but as for my mother, it would virtually be a death sentence for her. Even without these reasons, we are being encouraged by our government to stay home to help stunt the spread of the virus, help protect those most vulnerable, and not put anymore strain on our hospitals.

Please understand that I did not make this decision lightly. This is also not a letter of resignation. I would like to express my commitment to the long term health and prosperity of COMPANY and CORPORATION. If there is anything I can do remotely to help out, please let me know. "

I sent this a week ago(3/23/20). My boss understands. He called today (3/30/20) to ask when I thought I might be coming back, and I told him again that not until society as a whole returns to normal. His response was that he would need to talk to HR and the Corporation and that he would get back to me but he was going to do what he could to help me out. I think he means it too, as I think of him as much of a boss as well as a mentor.

I live in Massachusetts about 3 hours away from the epicenter in New York City. Cases, although not super abundant are popping up in my area.
My question is, am I being over reactive over am I being proactive? I can't help but feel very anxious about my decision. I'm not concerned about money at this time, I have a pretty healthy emergency fund but on the other hand I would hate to lose my job too as I really like my position and the people I work with. What do you think you'd do in my situation? Looking for advice.

erutio

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Re: Self Quarantine when job is considered essential
« Reply #1 on: March 30, 2020, 01:46:38 PM »
...
The reason for my decision is given the nature of the virus, I would consider myself a high risk individual as I have asthma and this virus is a respiratory illness. But another more compelling reason is that I live with my mother and she herself just a year ago battled lung cancer and she also has stage 4 COPD. If I contract the virus, I'm fairly confident I would survive, but as for my mother, it would virtually be a death sentence for her. Even without these reasons, we are being encouraged by our government to stay home to help stunt the spread of the virus, help protect those most vulnerable, and not put anymore strain on our hospitals.
...
 I'm not concerned about money at this time, I have a pretty healthy emergency fund but on the other hand I would hate to lose my job too as I really like my position and the people I work with. What do you think you'd do in my situation? Looking for advice.

You absolutely are doing the right thing.

Can you work remotely?

pressure9pa

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Re: Self Quarantine when job is considered essential
« Reply #2 on: March 30, 2020, 01:49:39 PM »
I have thought if I was forced to show up my response would be that I came in contact with someone who came in contact with someone that is currently undergoing testing because they show symptoms.  I figured that would buy me the time until a full shutdown came.  Sounds like that may not work in your case. 

FWIW, my company is letting employees stay home if they or a family member is high risk for 60% pay.  If they can work from home, then it is 100% pay.  They can self-determine "high risk", no questions asked. 

rockstache

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Re: Self Quarantine when job is considered essential
« Reply #3 on: March 30, 2020, 01:52:42 PM »
I would do the same. You can get another job if you have to. You cannot get another mother. Consider how you might feel if she contracted this from you because you were working. Continue being open and communicative with your boss, and be willing to use your PTO if you have any. Companies are being asked not to lay off workers, and many companies are trying to be flexible. Wishing the best for you and your mom.

Livingthedream55

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Re: Self Quarantine when job is considered essential
« Reply #4 on: March 30, 2020, 01:56:06 PM »
I commend you for this decision and am glad you have a healthy emergency fund. Hopefully working remotely might become an option. Have you directly asked?

Edmundjb

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Re: Self Quarantine when job is considered essential
« Reply #5 on: March 30, 2020, 01:59:47 PM »
I cannot work from home or anything really remotely. This is very much so a hands on job that can only be done there.

Sibley

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Re: Self Quarantine when job is considered essential
« Reply #6 on: March 30, 2020, 03:07:09 PM »
So, I told my employer that I would be WFH as well, but I am 100% able to work from home.

Given that you are not able to WFH, then you may end up having to take unpaid leave or something. Are you able/prepared to do so? Alternatively, if you could do part of your job remotely, you should offer that as a solution.