HVAC Employees Vaccination Roll-Out
The race to acquire a COVID-19 vaccine continues at a breakneck pace, with several candidates showing promise for commercialization in the near future.
However, as the search for a fully developed vaccine continues, an increasing number of people are growing afraid to get it.
This can create difficulties for business owners, particularly HVAC contractors. The question is whether employers, such as HVAC contractors, can require vaccinations of their employees.
The majority of employers leave it up to their employees to decide whether or not to be vaccinated. Typically, those who enforce vaccination requirements work in high-risk environments, such as healthcare. However, the coronavirus is a significant risk in any environment, particularly in people’s homes.
State regulations further complicate vaccine mandates. For example, California protects religious exemptions more strongly than the federal government does. For example, Oregon permits companies to offer vaccines but prohibits them from making them a condition of employment.
Another potential source of contention for employers may be unions, which could use vaccination as a platform to advocate for their members, particularly those who are anti-vaccine.
If a vaccine becomes available, contractors must decide the most effective method of promoting vaccination among their employees. They should educate employees about the dangers of not vaccinating oneself and, if necessary, reimburse them for vaccinations.
If staff continue to refuse immunization, HVAC contractors must evaluate their options for maintaining a safe business.
For instance, if an office employee who has little contact with the public declines the vaccination, they might work remotely instead.
Due to the nature of their work, accommodating field technicians is more challenging.
If an HVAC contractor performs work on both commercial and residential properties, non-vaccinated technicians may be assigned to jobs that need little human touch, such as rooftop units.
Given the uncertainty surrounding the situation, it is prudent for HVAC contractors to begin developing strategies, procedures, and other courses of action in order to be prepared when the time comes.
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