New state law declares COVID-19 an official work hazzard

All businesses in Yucatán are required to offer free hand sanitizers to combat the spread of COVID-19. Photo: File

Yucatán’s congress has amended state labour laws to include risk of contracting COVID-19 as an official work hazzard. 

According to this new law, employees who have contracted COVID-19 while on the job, are entitled to time off for recovery with full compensation.

“It is vital that we protect workers, especially those who are most vulnerable. This law seeks to ensure that nobody loses pay because they got sick on the job,” said state Congressman Manuel Armando Díaz.

Earlier: Protestors in the social event industry demand return to work

All workplaces are legally obliged to protect workers and the public at large, by taking measures such as implementing social distancing guidelines and providing free antibacterial gel. 

Some industries have fared better than others when adjusting to new rules and regulations. For instance, sectors of the economy such as construction and food delivery appear to be thriving. However, industries such as tourism and entertainment continue to operate at minimal levels, while accumulating historic losses.

“Many hotel owners are using up their savings to keep their businesses open and continue to pay their employees. These efforts can only be described as titanic,” said Armando Bojórquez Patrón, president of Latin America’s Association for Tourism and Culture.

Carlos Rosado van der Gracht
Carlos Rosado van der Gracht
Born in Mérida, Carlos Rosado van der Gracht is a Mexican/Canadian blogger, photographer and adventure expedition leader. He holds degrees in multimedia, philosophy, and translation from universities in Mexico, Canada and Norway.
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