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I am inquiring for a friend who has worked for the same company for approx 30 years as a forklift operator. He has had a problem with alcoholism for many years that has progressed over the past few years. He was caught for a second time recently driving alcohol on the premises and was dismissed last week. First time was verbal warning and second time was dismissal.
My understanding is that alcoholism is considered a sickness/disability. Should the company have suguested that he seek help for his problem rather than dismiss him?
If so, what are his next steps?
At this point, he has not signed anything as he was just sent home and told not to return to work. He has not had any communication since then
Thanks for your question. Your understanding is correct, your friend's employer has a duty to accommodate him and assist him in seeking help/treatment. Given what you have provided, your friend has been wrongfully dismissed and may be owed significant severance. I would encourage you to visit the severance pay calculator our firm has developed to see what he is owed (www.SeverancePayCalculator.com).
Your friend's next step we be to call us and set up a free and confidential consultation with one of our employment lawyers. During the consultation, the lawyer will be able to fully review your friend's matter and provide him with further advice.
Your friend's next step we be to call us and set up a free and confidential consultation with one of our employment lawyers. During the consultation, the lawyer will be able to fully review your friend's matter and provide him with further advice.