What is Sick Leave?
Sick leave is paid time off from work that workers can use to stay home to address their health needs without losing pay.
How Long Is Sick Leave In South Africa
An employee who works 5 days per week is entitled to 30 days every 36 months. An employee who works 6 days per week is entitled to 36 days of sick leave every 36 months. Where an employee works Monday to Friday plus every second Saturday, the employee is entitled to 33 (30 + 3 Saturdays) days’ sick leave.
How long can you take sick leave?
There is no maximum period of sickness absence, but your employer should allow a “reasonable” length of time for you to recover. Have you repeatedly been off work due to illness or injury? Do you have a medical condition that makes it impossible for you to do your job?
How long do you have to call in sick before work?
As a rule of thumb, you should aim to notify your boss of your sickness at least two hours before your shift start time. This should allow them sufficient time to arrange cover if required.
What is the leave law in South Africa?
The entitlement is 21 consecutive days of annual leave on full remuneration, in respect of each annual leave cycle, and if an employee works a five-day week then this is equal to 15 working days, or if the employee works a six-day week then it is equal to 18 working days.