Employee Return-to-Work Guidance
Proper return-to-work protocols should be followed after an employee’s quarantine or isolation to reduce the risk of spread of COVID-19 in the workplace.
WHEN SHOULD EMPLOYEES QUARANTINE?
If they traveled outside of Massachusetts within the last 10 days or have been exposed to someone who is COVID-19 positive even if they aren’t showing symptoms and haven’t tested positive.
WHEN SHOULD EMPLOYEES ISOLATE?
If they tested positive for COVID-19 OR have any symptoms of COVID-19 (even mild).
WHEN CAN THEY RETURN TO WORK?
All employees in isolation or quarantine should not return to work unless they meet the following criteria:
| IF EMPLOYEE WAS IN QUARANTINE | IF EMPLOYEE WAS IN ISOLATION |
|---|---|
|
DUE TO KNOW EXPOSURE • After quarantining for the required time* • For healthcare workers, first responders and critical infrastructure workers: • Certain sector workers may continue to work during quarantine to preserve critical functions only if they remain asymptomatic. • Workers must wear at least a face covering and any additional appropriate work PPE and self-monitor for symptoms DUE TO TRAVEL OUTSIDE MA • Quarantine for 10 days* OR produce a negative COVID-19 result |
Mild – moderate symptoms • At least 24 hours without fever (without fever-reducing medication); and • At least 10 days since symptoms began; and• Improvement in symptoms Severe symptoms (required hospitalization) • Employee should consult infectious disease expert • Isolate up to 20 days Asymptomatic • At least 10 days since date of first positive COVID-19 test; and • No subsequent symptoms developed |
Employers should not require a COVID-19 test result or a healthcare provider’s note for employees who are sick to validate their illness, qualify for sick leave, or to return to work.
* For full details on quarantine timing based on testing or symptom development, visit mass.gov/QuarantineTime