Singapore Airlines has responded to allegations that its sick leave policy is unsafe and unfair
Singapore Airlines (SIA) has refuted claims that its sick leave system is unfair.
Earlier this week, the airline was hit with accusations that its sick leave system discourages genuinely ill employees from taking medical leave.
The accusations came in the wake of a tragedy involving 38-year-old Singapore Airlines flight attendant, Vanessa Yeap, who was found dead in a San Francisco hotel room a few hours before she was due to depart on a return long-haul flight.
An SIA spokesperson has responded to the claims, telling The New Paper that employees who are given medical leave are encouraged to rest at home.
"Operating with an MC is a disciplinary lapse," he said.
The spokesman also reiterated their commitment to workplace health and safety and fair performance management systems.
"Although crew attendance is a component in the performance management process, we would like to emphasise that crew performance is measured across many other factors," he said.
MOM issued a statement on Monday 6 February, confirming that sick leave is "a basic protection" under the Employment Act.
The Ministry also urged all HR departments to clearly communicate their employment and work-related terms and benefits to employees to avoid misunderstanding.
