COVID-19 FAQs
Frequently asked questions about COVID-19 and protocols in a work environment.
Can my employer require vaccination as a condition of employment?
A private employer may require its employees to be vaccinated.
What if the vaccination is against my religious beliefs?
You may request a religious accommodation to exempt you from the employer’s vaccination requirement. It is recommended the request be in writing.
What if the vaccination is not recommended by my doctor due to medical reasons and/or my disability?
You may request an accommodation to exempt you from the employer’s vaccination requirement. You will need to obtain a note from your medical provider demonstrating the need for accommodation.
I have a medical diagnosis which heightens my susceptibility to COVID-19, are there accommodations I can seek regarding returning to the office?
The accommodations you may request will be specific to your medical needs. There is no “one size fits all” accommodation. You will need to obtain a note from your medical provider demonstrating the need for accommodation and speak with your employer to determine a mutually agreed upon and adequate accommodation. Accommodations may include:
- hybrid schedule
- working remotely
- switching offices or cubicles
- having a partition installed, etc.
Can my employer require I wear a face mask?
A private employer may require its employees to wear masks.
What if I am unable to wear a mask for medical reasons?
You may request an accommodation to exempt you from the employer’s mask requirement. You will need to obtain a note from your medical provider demonstrating the need for accommodation.
What can I do if my employer has denied my religious or medical accommodation request(s)?
Depending on who denied the request, it is recommended that you speak to Human Resources or upper-level management. If your accommodation request has been denied by Human Resources or upper-level management, please contact the Commission as you may be able to file a complaint against your employer.
For additional information regarding COVID-19, please follow the link below.
Coronavirus and COVID-19 | U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
Questions?
Contact the Commission
Phone: 603-271-2767
Email: humanrights@hrc.nh.gov