The Lodge at Chaa Creek

Work Place Policy on HIV/AIDS General Statement: The Lodge at Chaa Creek recognizes the seriousness of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and its impact on the workplace. Compliant with our Memorandum of Cooperation with the Labour Department Workplace Education Programme in Belize, we fully support the national and International Labour Organizations (ILO) efforts to reduce the spread of infection in order to minimize the impact of the disease on the workplace. Objective: The purpose of this policy is to ensure all employees are equipped with information on prevention of HIV infection while eradicating the negative stigma and consequent disregard of the human rights of persons affected by this disease. This policy will be implemented in consultation with employees at all levels at the work place. Policy Framework & General Principles: The Lodge at Chaa Creek subscribes to the National Policy of HIV/AIDS and the World of Work and will implement the following policies; Workplace Issue We recognize that HIV/AIDS is a workplace issue and will treat it like any other serious illness/condition in the workplace. Non-discrimination & Gender Equality

No employee male or female; will be discriminated against if infected or perceived infected with HIV/AIDS. We are aware that with access to appropriate treatment, persons with AIDS can lead meaningful & productive lives.

Safe & Healthy Work Environment

We will ensure that the work environment is healthy and safe; employees will be trained on the proper use of work equipment, provided proper safety tools and will attend hygiene and general health seminars organized by the lodge. Free written materials on various safety, health & nutrition topics and condoms will be accessible to all employees.

Social Dialogue

We will work towards co-operation and trust among all employers, workers and government in order to foster dialogue.

No screening for exclusion HIV/AIDS screening is not required of job applicants nor is testing required of employees. During health seminars, employees will be encouraged to get tested with the sole purpose of knowing their status which will encourage continued safe practices or to avoid involuntary infection of another.

Confidentiality

No employee or job applicant is obligated to disclose his/her HIV-related information.

Continuation of Employment

HIV/AIDS is not a cause for termination of employment. As with many other conditions, employees with HIV & AIDS related illness are able to work for as long as they are medically fit in the available & appropriate job task.

Prevention

HIV is preventable. Through the implementation of our HIV/AIDS workplace education program, various strategies will be implemented to reach out to employees. We feel that our employees will acquire the knowledge, attitude & behavior change that should lead to prevention and minimization of HIV & other sexually transmitted infections.

Care & Support

Procedures will be designed to provide employees infected or affected with HIV/AIDS with psycho-social, financial and emotional assistance by relevant individuals. Employees will also have access to on-site peer educators/counselors for information and support and will be encouraged to seek these persons.

Signatures of employer & employee representatives;

______________________ Lucy Fleming Proprietor/General Manager The Lodge at Chaa Creek

____________________ Date

_____________________ Loncy Emmanuel Employee Representative The Lodge at Chaa Creek

____________________ Date

_____________________ Hertha Gentle-Garber, M.A. Labour Officer Ministry of Labour

____________________ Date