Lessons Learned The Hard Way: Managing Short-Term Absences (Reprise)

Sometimes employers are rewarded for their efforts in being patient but persistent when dealing with absent employees!

Several years ago we wrote an article regarding how employers can proactively and effectively manage the short term absences of their non-unionized employees, and avoid potential liability. At the time, much of the guidance came from cases involving employers who had erred in how they tried to manage such absences. Recently, one employer was rewarded for its effort to manage a short–term absence, and the case provides guidance on how to successfully engage in proactive management of a difficult workplace issue.

Mr. Betts was 35 years of age and had been employed with IBM Canada Ltd. for 15 years as a learning specialist. He suffered from depression and anxiety disorder. His condition caused a four-month absence several years prior to the termination of his employment. At that time he was accommodated and successfully returned to work. Following