Google Will Require Employees to be Vaccinated
Google announced today that employees returning to work at its campuses starting in late October will need to be fully vaccinated.
“Getting vaccinated is one of the most important ways to keep ourselves and our communities healthy in the months ahead,” An email from Google CEO Sundar Pichai to employees explains. “As we look toward a global return to our offices, I wanted to share two key updates.”
First, Google employees who are coming back to work at the firm’s campuses will need to be fully vaccinated. “The implementation will vary according to local conditions and regulations, and will not apply until vaccines are widely available in your area,” Mr. Pichai says. “You’ll get guidance from your local leads about how this will affect you, and we’ll also share more details on an exceptions process for those who cannot be vaccinated for medical or other protected reasons.”
Second, Google is extending its global work-from-home policy until October 18, giving Googlers more time to get vaccinated. “We recognize that many Googlers are seeing spikes in their communities caused by the Delta variant and are concerned about returning to the office,” he added. “This extension will allow us time to ramp back into work while providing flexibility for those who need it.”
Pichai says that Google employees will find out at least 30 days in advance before they are required to transition back to the office. And those with special circumstances will be able to apply to work from home through the end of 2021.