Entry into service despite ordered isolation due to suspected corona case in accordance with Section 7 of the Epidemics Act
Decision of the Supreme Court from 14.9.2021, 8 ObA 54/21f – Entry into service despite ordered isolation due to suspected corona case in accordance with Section 7 of the Epidemics Act.
The Austrian Supreme Court rejected the extraordinary appeal due to the lack of a significant legal issue and explained in detail why the decisions of the lower courts did not raise any concerns:
An employee who was ill with coronavirus had to isolate herself due to a suspected case of coronavirus, but nevertheless went to work without informing the employer and thus endangered her colleagues. In fact, a positive test result was available on the following day. However, the reason for her dismissal was not her illness, but the fact that she ignored the order not to leave the apartment to prevent the possible spread of the coronavirus. This constituted a breach of trust, and the employer had a justified fear, based on reasonable business judgment, that its interests were endangered by the employee.
Although an objective standard must be applied, negligence is sufficient for the reason for dismissal. The employee's intention to cause damage or the occurrence of damage are not required.