Apple COVID-19 Policy: Daily Testing for Unvaccinated Employees

Apple Enhances COVID-19 Safety Measures

While not implementing a company-wide vaccination requirement like Google, Apple is strengthening its COVID-19 safety procedures. The tech company is now mandating regular testing for unvaccinated employees who work on-site.

New Testing Protocols for Corporate Staff

According to reports from Bloomberg, all corporate employees who are not vaccinated will be required to undergo COVID-19 testing each time they come into the office. This differs from the previous policy where employees could work remotely without testing.

Previously, in September, Apple requested employees to voluntarily disclose their vaccination status. Individuals who choose not to reveal their status will also be subject to daily testing requirements.

In contrast, employees who are fully vaccinated will only need to participate in weekly rapid testing.

Retail Staff Testing Guidelines

The new testing protocols do not apply to Apple’s retail employees in the same manner. Unvaccinated retail staff, who have direct interaction with customers, are required to be tested twice a week.

Similar to office workers, vaccinated retail employees will only be tested weekly using rapid tests.

Potential for Future Mandates

It remains uncertain whether Apple will eventually institute a full COVID-19 vaccine mandate. However, a previous directive from the Biden administration set a deadline of December 8th for federal contractors to require employee vaccinations.

Given that Apple is a vendor to the US government, this federal requirement is a relevant consideration.

Implementation Timeline and Procedures

Apple has reportedly set an October 24th deadline for employees to submit their vaccination status and provide proof of vaccination. The new testing rules are anticipated to take effect on November 1st.

Unvaccinated employees will be provided with at-home rapid tests, which they will administer themselves. Results must then be reported through an internal company application.

Note: This report was originally published on Engadget.