Corporate offices often impose strict rules requiring employees to submit medical certificates to request extended sick leave. However, emergencies and medical issues can arise unexpectedly, and employees might not always be able to anticipate when they will need time off. Some companies enforce policies that compel workers to return to their duties despite being unwell, with sick leave limited to only a few days.

This issue became tragically evident in Thailand, where a 30-year-old woman died at her workplace after her request for sick leave was denied.

May, a 30-year-old worker at an electronics plant in Samut Prakan province, Thailand, collapsed while at work and later died. Her manager had refused her request for additional sick leave, forcing her to report to work despite being gravely ill.

Previously, May had taken leave from September 5 to 9 after being diagnosed with inflamed intestines. She spent four days in the hospital receiving treatment. Upon her discharge, her condition had improved, but she still felt weak and took an additional two days off to recover.

On the third day, still unwell, she requested one more day of rest. However, her manager denied her request, insisting that she come to work and provide a medical certificate. May, worried that taking further sick leave might jeopardize her job, reluctantly went to the office. Within 20 minutes of arriving at work, she collapsed. She was rushed to the hospital and admitted to the emergency ward, where she was tragically pronounced dead due to necrotizing enterocolitis.

May’s employer, Delta Electronics Thailand, released a statement expressing their sorrow over the tragic loss. The company posted on its official Facebook page:

"We are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to her family and loved ones during this difficult time. At this moment, we are still in the process of establishing the facts surrounding her passing and have initiated a thorough investigation. Our goal is to create a better understanding of the situation while ensuring we provide the necessary support to her family. We remain fully committed to doing everything we can to help during this challenging period. We will share updates as more information becomes available. Thank you for your patience and understanding during this sensitive time."

This tragic incident has ignited conversations about the need for more compassionate and flexible workplace sick leave policies in Thailand and beyond.

Reference:

1) Reporters, Online. “Worker Dies after Boss Allegedly Refused Her Sick Leave.” https://www.bangkokpost.com, September 17, 2024. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2867201/worker-dies-after-boss-allegedly-refused-her-sick-leave.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Yash Kamble/MSM)