Hi I think I know my DH's rights but wanted to check with you wise people.
He works in sterile services, cleaning and sterilising medical instruments from local hospitals.
Last week he got a "needlestick injury" where his skin was punctured by some sort of dirty instrument. The procedure is to go straight to A and E as they have to do blood tests and check for HIV/ Hepatitis etc. My DH went to A and E and they gave him a 5 day course of medication to treat HIV. Sorry I'm not sure the name of it but its a common treatment for this injury at work. My DH was told that he will more than likely suffer from diarrhoea and sickness/ nausea and other symptoms.
So anyway he did suffer these symptoms and was off work for 4 days last week, returning today.
His employers however are questioning him, have googled his medication and told him apparently he is making up the side effects. We are not too bothered about this accusation as we have the leaflet saying VERY COMMON side effects.
But they are "investigating" his absence and want a doctor's certificate. This investigation is secret and we only know of this because one of his supervisors who is a good friend has told him. But he was off work for only 4 days and so am I right in thinking that they have no right to ask for such a note? He has filled out a self certification from work, has witnesses who saw the injury, and empty boxes of medication with the leaflets stating side effects.
Basically I'm asking where my DH stands and what he can do next. I think they are bullying him and trying to frighten him because they are looking to get rid of people. But they have no reasonable grounds to discipline him do they?