Sick Notes for Manitoba Construction & Trades Workers
Manitoba's construction and trades sector employs over 40,000 workers. Whether you're a journeyperson electrician, a heavy equipment operator, or a first-year apprentice, getting a sick note presents unique challenges when you start at 6am and clinics don't open until 9.
The Construction Worker's Dilemma
- Early starts: Most sites begin at 6-7am; walk-in clinics open at 8-9am
- Remote sites: Highway construction, northern Manitoba projects — no nearby clinics
- Physical demands: Employers are strict about fitness-to-work for safety
- Union rules: Many collective agreements have specific documentation requirements
- Apprenticeship: Missing too many days can affect your hours log
When You Need a Sick Note
| Situation | Note Required? | Notes |
|-----------|---------------|-------|
| 1-2 day absence | Depends on employer/union | Check your CA |
| 3+ day absence | Usually yes | Most CAs require it |
| Workplace injury | WCB handles this | File WCB, not sick note |
| Return after illness | Often required | Fitness-to-work statement |
| Apprenticeship absence | After 2 days | Affects hour logging |
Online Sick Notes: Built for Trades Workers
MedLetter works for construction schedules:
- Submit at 5am before your shift — note delivered by afternoon
- Submit at 8pm after a long day — note ready next morning
- $49 flat fee — less than 2 hours of journeyperson wages
- CPSM-registered physician — accepted by all Manitoba employers and unions
- Includes fitness-to-work language if needed for return
Union-Specific Information
IBEW (Electricians): Sick note after 2 consecutive days per most local agreements
UA (Plumbers/Pipefitters): Sick note after 3 days; return-to-work for 5+ days
Carpenters (UBC): Varies by local; typically after 2 days
Operating Engineers (IUOE): Sick note after 1 day for heavy equipment operators
Your Rights
- Your employer/union cannot require you to see a specific doctor
- Online physician notes are legally identical to in-person notes
- Your diagnosis is confidential
- Fitness-to-work assessments can be done virtually for non-physical conditions
[Get your sick note →](/intake)