Can my employer insist to do weekly testing now?

Specific disabilities and conditions
1

In the gov.uk now posted new article under Covid19 guidance and advice that been enrolled big amount of tests and England care homes will get them, and all staff and residents will do them. Staff every week, residents every 28 days. Is it legal to push me do so? It does not say I have to, it is not compulsory. Can my employer oblige me to do so? Please help.

2

Why would you not want to?

3

I don’t need that and I don’t want that.
Question is if I must or not, is it legal to push me do so?

4

Hello Marite

I’m sorry but we are not the best people to answer your question.

Carers UK is a charity that supports and advises those caring for a relative or friend in an unpaid, non-professional capacity - as a paid professional you would be better off asking the question of your union (Unison ?) or ACAS.

Unfortunately as unpaid carers we don’t have the luxury of easy access to COVID19 testing although many would probably like the option to ensure that they are not carrying the virus back to their vulnerable loved ones.

5

You can find guidance on coronavirus testing, including who is eligible for a test and how to get tested here.

Testing is voluntary and your employer should not insist you request a test.

Taken from:- https://www.unison.org.uk/coronavirus-rights-work/#top

Notice it says “not insist you request a test” - not take a test , but it’s the closest thing I’ve found.

I still find it bizarre that you don’t want a test - it’s quick, painless and less intrusive than brushing your teeth.

6

It is in the best interests of the people you care for, your work colleagues and society at large to have these tests. If you don’t understand this then you cannot do the job properly!

7

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8

Marite,

Putting aside the moral obligation.

Your employer cannot insist that you take a test unless that is written in your contract. However, you can be subject to disciplinary procedures for refusing to obey a “reasonable instruction” by management. Dependent on your own company’s procedures, you could ultimately lose your job over this. I say “could” as none of us are legal experts. However, I do work in HR and in my own company we would go down the disciplinary route if all other discussion failed.

Hope this helps,
Anne