In Thailand, a heartbreaking incident has drawn attention to the critical need for fair sick leave policies in the workplace. A 30-year-old factory worker, known only as May, collapsed and died after her manager allegedly denied her request for sick leave. The Bangkok Post reported this tragic story, raising concerns about employee welfare in factories.
May worked at an electronics plant in Samut Prakan province. Doctors diagnosed her with an inflamed large intestine, which required hospitalization. From September 5 to September 9, she received treatment and spent four days in the hospital. After her discharge, May realized she needed more time to recover and took an additional two days off work. However, she still felt unwell.
On September 12, woman approached her manager, seeking one more day of sick leave. Unfortunately, her manager denied the request, stating that she needed to submit another medical certificate because she had already taken several sick days.
Woman Felt Pressure to Return to Job
Worried about the possibility of losing her job, May felt pressured to return to work on September 13, despite her worsening condition. Her friend later reported that she could only work for about 20 minutes before she collapsed on the factory floor. This alarming situation led to her being rushed back to the hospital, where doctors found her condition critical.
Doctors performed emergency surgery, but tragically, they pronounced May dead the following evening. They identified the cause of death as necrotising enterocolitis, a severe inflammation of the intestines.
This incident highlights a serious issue many workers face: the fear of losing their jobs when they need time off to recover from illness. Employees should feel safe and supported when taking necessary sick leave, as it is vital for their health and well-being. Companies must prioritize employee welfare and implement fair sick leave policies to ensure that no one feels compelled to risk their health for fear of job loss.
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As May’s story unfolds, it serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and understanding in the workplace. Fair treatment of employees not only promotes a healthier work environment but also contributes to the overall productivity and morale of the workforce.