Managing AIDS

No. First, it would constitute an unfair business practice. Second, it would not even reveal all individuals who are HIV-positive as there is a window period or time lag between becoming infected and having antibodies to the virus form in the blood. Third, even if employees were to be pre-screened, there is nothing that prevents an employee getting infected later.

Should existing employees be tested for HIV?

Tough one. An HIV test is not 100 per cent accurate. It is an expensive procedure which must be repeated every three to six months if the idea is to identify all cases of HIV. And testing should not be done unless a person is fully aware of the meaning and consequence of the test results and has provided his or her consent. Total confidentiality must be guaranteed. This is important because misinformation and misconception heighten anxiety felt by those who have their first encounter with a person with AIDS. Such an approach will ensure the rights and dignity of all and create an atmosphere of caring for the workers.

Under what circumstances should an HIV positive employee be dismissed or deemed ineligible for employment?

A person with AIDS does not present a risk of infection for others in daily casual contact. Once infected, she/he can lead a healthy, active and productive life for an average of 7-10 years. If this person is capable of performing his or her job, there is no medical justification for dismissal.

What would be a good personnel policy with regard to rehabilitation of AIDS-infected employees?

Two fundamental principles should guide policy. First, healthy HIV positive workers should be treated the same way as any other worker. Most of them are fully capable of carrying out their job responsibilities and find comfort in continuing their daily employment. Second, when related illnesses cause a person with HIV to need special attention, such as longer sick leave or a less strenuous job, businesses should accommodate the situation following the policies applied to other illnesses.

Source: CII brochure on AIDS in the Workplace.