Developing an HIV Workplace Policy
An HIV/AIDS policy-whether as a stand-alone policy or as part of a larger policy addressing non-discrimination or life-threatening illnesses-defines your company's position and practices as they relate to staff/workers with HIV infection. Developing a workplace policy on HIV/AIDS can help HIV/AIDS fear and discrimination and create an environment where everyone, regardless of position or education, feel comfortable requesting, receiving and discussing HIV/AIDS information.
A company's HIV/AIDS policy should:
- Form the foundation for its entire HIV/AIDS program
- Be the standard for communication about HIV/AIDS
- Set the standard of behavior expected of all staff/workers
- Let all management and employees know where to go for assistance
- Instruct managers and supervisors on how to address HIV/AIDS
- Establish compliance with all Federal, state, and local laws
Designing policies and implementing workplace programs early provides several benefits to your company, including:
- Educating the workforce about HIV prevention and supporting regular testing
- Meeting National and State antidiscrimination requirements as mandated in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, and other federal, state and local laws and statutes.
- Communicating your commitment to employee health and overall well-being
- Demonstrating your organization's responsiveness to employee and community concerns.
A comprehensive HIV workplace policy is the recommended first step in promoting HIV awareness, prevention and testing and responding proactively to HIV for the benefit of your entire organization.
