Why the HIV and AIDS workplace policy
A workplace policy provides the framework for action to reduce the spread of HIV and AIDS and manage its impact. It:
- makes an explicit commitment to corporate action
- ensures consistency with appropriate national laws
- lays down a standard of behaviour for all employees (whether infected or not)
- gives guidance to supervisors and managers
- helps employees living with HIV and AIDS to understand what support and care they will receive, so they are morelikely to come forward for voluntary testing
- helps to stop the spread of the virus through prevention programmes
- assists an enterprise to plan for HIV and AIDS and manage its impact, so ultimately saving money.
A workplace policy provides a basis for putting in place a comprehensive workplace programme, combining prevention, care and the protection of rights. Depending on the particular situation, it may consist of a detailed document on HIV and AIDS or on a programme and policy. It may also be part of a wider policy or agreement on safety, health and working conditions.
