Law

Employers Cannot Simply Treat Every Sick Day the Same

Under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, during a 36-month sick-leave cycle an employee is generally entitled to paid sick leave equivalent to the number of days they'd normally work in six weeks — but a different accrual rule applies during the first six months of employment.

Sick leave is often handled informally in workplaces, but the law establishes minimum standards. Understanding the sick-leave cycle helps employees and employers distinguish between statutory entitlement and additional company benefits offered on top of it.

Source: Basic Conditions of Employment Act

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a sick-leave cycle?

36 months.

Does a new employee immediately receive six weeks of sick leave?

No — special rules apply during the first six months.

Can an employer have a more generous sick-leave policy?

Yes — employment contracts or workplace policies can provide benefits above the statutory minimum.

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