Employers must be mindful of after-effects of the COVID-19 vaccine

The joint statement said employers and operators should be aware of the potential impacts on drivers in the days after receiving the vaccine.

While encouraging everyone who is offered a COVID-19 vaccine to take it, the statement also asks employers to support their staff in obtaining the vaccine and suggests they may want to offer paid time off work to allow drivers to visit a vaccination centre.

Side effects from having the vaccination can include having tenderness in the infected arm, feeling tired, headaches and mild flu-like symptoms.

Government advice sets out that vaccinated people should be able to resume their regular activities, as long as they feel well enough to do so. It also advises those feeling unwell or very tired to rest and avoid operating machinery or driving.

When planning driver activity, the joint statement advises employers to take into account whether or not a driver has recently received a vaccine or is due to be vaccinated.

“Drivers should not be expected to drive if they feel unwell or whilst very tired,” the joint statement reads, “Employers remain responsible for the health and safety of their employees and other road users.”  

*Read the joint statement here

Published On: 27/05/2021 17:00:35

Comments Section

If you are a Logistics UK member login to add comments.