Workplace COVID-19 Vaccination Program Guidance

Revised April 20, 2021

2.5 minute read

Although vaccine programs are not yet available to many employers, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided some guidance regarding them.

Some employers may be able to offer free, onsite COVID-19 vaccinations at their work locations. Employers should contact the health department in their jurisdiction for guidance. If you are eligible, offer the vaccination at no charge and during work hours.

Vaccination programs can offer benefits to both the employer and employee. The potential benefits for employers include:

• Improved workforce health by helping employees prevent COVID-19
• Improved productivity and morale
• Reduced time missed from work to get vaccinated
• Reduced absences due to illness

Potential benefits for employees include:

• Improved morale
• Offered convenience
• Prevented COVID-19 illness
• Reduced absences and doctor visits due to illness

Other things to take into consideration when offering a vaccination program at your workplace include vaccine scheduling, vaccinations for contractors and temporary employees, vaccine mandates and exemptions, and more.

If your workplace is determined to be not a suitable location to offer vaccines, employers can encourage employees to seek vaccinations in their community and provide information about where they can get one.

• Advertise locations offering COVID-19 in the community. You can use promotional posters/flyers in high traffic areas like the break room or cafeteria
• Use company communications (newsletters, emails, portals, etc.) to post articles about the importance of the vaccination and where to get the vaccine in the community.
• Be flexible in your HR policies. Support transportation to off-site vaccination clinics. Establish policies that allow employees to take paid leave to seek the vaccination in the community.

Employers should continue to monitor current CDC guidance on workplace vaccination programs and follow recommendations from local health care providers. Download the bulletin for more details.

Additional Resources

Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 Vaccination | CDC

COVID-19 Vaccines Fact Sheet

This blog is intended to be a compilation of information and resources pulled from federal, state, and local agencies. This is not intended to be legal advice. For up to the minute information and guidance on COVID-19, please follow the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and your local health organizations.