Coronavirus and Data Protection – Four Points for Employers

Covid-19 and its spread across borders is a concern for employers and employees alike. While employers will be anxious to ensure the safety and health of their employees, measures intended to ensure a safe working environment can increase processing of employee personal data. In response to concerns, the Data Protection Commission (DPC) has recently issued guidance about data protection issues and Covid-19. This guidance highlights the importance of taking decisions about personal data (particularly health data) which are necessary, proportionate and informed by directions of public health authorities.