Navigating Sick Leave in BC: A Practical Guide to Managing Illness & Injury-Related Leaves

Author: Kristen Shaw and Claire Wanhella
Current to: May 2026

Managing illness and injury-related leaves in British Columbia has become increasingly complex. With recent changes to employment standards legislation, evolving evidentiary requirements, and overlapping human rights obligations, both employers and employees must navigate a legal landscape that continues to develop.

Now available through CLEBC’s Courses on Demand, our newest Practice Point, “Navigating Sick Leave in BC: A Practical Guide to Managing Illness & Injury-Related Leaves,” was prepared by Kristen Shaw and Claire Wanhella of McMillan LLP and was originally presented at CLEBC’s Employment Law Conference 2026.

The paper provides a focused analysis of recent changes under the Employment Standards Act, including limitations on medical documentation requirements for short-term absences and the introduction of job-protected long-term illness or injury leave. It also explores practical considerations for advising employers and employees, including updating workplace policies, managing attendance programs, and addressing compliance risks.

Designed for employment lawyers and practitioners advising on workplace issues, this Practice Point offers a practical framework for navigating sick leave obligations with greater clarity and confidence in an evolving area of BC employment law.

 

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