Employees at Candu Energy Inc. were given just one business day’s notice to return to full-time onsite work, according to the union representing engineers, scientists and technicians at the company.
The decision came in the midst of a labour dispute with employees represented by the Society of Professional Engineers and Associates, who began striking at the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station on May 29, according to a press release from the union. The release noted employees have also been told they’ll now need a doctor’s note to receive any sick pay.
Read: 19% of remote workers would mull quitting if forced to return to office: survey
In the release, Denise Coombs, staff representative at the SPEA, said some employees are scrambling to make childcare arrangements, while others have medical issues and are afraid of coronavirus exposure upon returning to packed office spaces. She noted the SPEA intends to take legal action against the employer.
SNC-Lavalin Group Inc., Candu Energy’s parent company, didn’t respond to Benefits Canada’s request for comment.
Read: Employees facing work-life balance, mental-health challenges amid return to workplace