Questions & Answers
The liability of employer if the employee fell unconscious under the influence of alcohol
Hi,
In our organization, one of our blue-collar workers who was under the influence of alcohol in our labor camps (Sharjah) fell from his bed and became unconscious.
He was moved to a non-network hospital by ambulance due to the non-availability of space in the government hospital. The insurance company has also advised that since this an alcoholism-related case, it is not covered by insurance.
For several months, his condition has not changed and the amount accumulated due to hospital bills is significant.
My query is if the employee causes injury to himself and that act is not covered by insurance, is the employer/sponsor legally liable to foot the bill or it is primarily the employee's liability?
Hello,
As per your query, it is not clear when the incident happened? If it happened outside of the employment, then the employer is not liable, however, the employee was staying in the labor camp, hence there are few questions:
Was the employee a habitual offender? If so, did you take strict action against him?
On the humanitarian ground, you can help him, but as per the law, if he is habitual and you have not taken action, then it is illegal.
However, if it is for the first time and the incident happened, then you can settle it, but you are not fully liable for the medical bills.
Please contact us via phone or email for further assistance.
