Xiao Yong, a Hepatitis B virus carrier, was relieved after he
learned there were new regulations regarding employment, because
his illness has denied him several job opportunities. "This is
really good news. The government showed its attitude toward
Hepatitis B virus carriers but no relative rules had been detailed
before the new regulations were unveiled," Xiao Yong said.
The Ministry of Labor and Social Security of the PRC recently
released the Regulations on Employment Services and Management,
which will take effect on January 1 of next year. The new
regulations will strengthen employee protections.
A noticeable item added to the regulations is that employers
must not refuse candidates because they are Hepatitis B virus
carriers and also must not set the Hepatitis B virus serology index
as a physical exam standard. A compulsive physical exam is not
allowed and enterprises with irregularities may be imposed a fine
up to 1,000 yuan (US$135).
There are about 120 million Hepatitis B virus carriers in China.
"Discrimination against Hepatitis B virus carriers still happens in
China. The regulations will protect the employment rights of these
people, so they are beneficial," Li Xiongwen said, General Manager
of Excellence Consultants Ltd.
The regulations also state that employers should indicate
payment and welfare in their job advertisements and they should not
enforce restrictions on the marriage of women employees.
The regulations also stipulate that employers should not detain
their employees’ identification cards and other credentials nor
collect belongings from employees in the name of guarantees.
(China.org.cn by Yang Xi, November 9, 2007)