A Business-Minded Approach To Employment Law

Challenges businesses face with employees on intermittent FMLA

On Behalf of | May 13, 2024 | Employment Law |

Intermittent FMLA allows eligible employees to take leave in small bits of time, instead of all at once. While this can be beneficial to employees juggling medical treatments or caring for family members, it can be difficult for employers to manage.

Having a clear understanding of the challenges helps businesses better address them.

Scheduling adjustments

One major challenge is making frequent adjustments to work schedules. Since employees on intermittent FMLA can take leave in small increments, it may require constant reshuffling of work shifts. This can disrupt workflow and make it difficult to maintain consistent productivity.

Workload distribution

Another issue is redistributing workloads when employees are on intermittent FMLA. Other employees may need to take on additional tasks to cover for their absent colleagues. This can lead to increased stress and potential burnout if not managed effectively.

Communication and coordination

Effective communication and coordination are key when dealing with intermittent FMLA. Employers need to keep lines of communication open with employees on FMLA leave to ensure they understand their rights and responsibilities. Coordination between managers and HR personnel is also important to ensure the smooth operation of business processes.

Compliance with regulations

Ensuring adherence to FMLA regulations can be challenging for businesses. Employers must accurately track employees’ FMLA usage and maintain proper documentation to avoid potential legal issues. Failure to comply with FMLA regulations can result in costly penalties and damage to the company’s reputation.

Impact on morale

Other employees may feel resentful or overwhelmed when they have to take on additional responsibilities to cover for colleagues on intermittent FMLA. This can lead to decreased morale and strained team dynamics. Employers must actively work to address these issues and foster a supportive work environment for all employees.

By anticipating these challenges, businesses can better navigate the complexities of intermittent FMLA while maintaining productivity and effectively supporting their teams.

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