Employee, 30, dies after manager denies sick leave. CEO issues statement: 'We are devastated by this loss'

The company announced that it would initiate a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding May’s death.

A 30-year-old factory worker in Thailand passed away shortly after her request for sick leave was denied by her supervisor, raising concerns about workplace conditions and employee welfare. The incident occurred in the Samut Prakan province, south of Bangkok, amid growing global debates on work-life balance and employee rights.

The woman, identified as May, had been employed at an electronics manufacturing plant owned by Delta Electronics Thailand. Reports from the Bangkok Post indicate that May had been receiving treatment for an inflamed large intestine and had taken medical leave from September 5-9, supported by a doctor’s note. During this period, she was hospitalised for four days, followed by two additional days of recovery at home.

On the evening of September 12, May sought further sick leave, stating her condition had worsened. However, her manager declined the request, instructing her to return to work and provide an updated medical certificate. Fearing repercussions for her job security, May reported for duty the next day, despite her deteriorating health.

According to a colleague, May collapsed after just 20 minutes on the factory floor. She was immediately transported to a nearby hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery. Tragically, she succumbed to complications arising from necrotising enterocolitis the following day.

Delta Electronics Thailand responded to the incident in a public statement issued on 17th September, expressing deep regret over the loss of their employee. “At Delta Electronics, our people are the foundation of our success, and we are devastated by this loss,” said Victor Cheng, CEO of Delta Electronics (Thailand) PCL, in the statement.

The company announced that it would initiate a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding May’s death, with a commitment to transparency. “Our priority is to provide unwavering support to the employee’s family at this trying time,” Cheng added. “Delta Electronics remains committed to transparency and responsibility and will keep all relevant parties informed as more information becomes available.”

The incident has prompted discussions around the handling of employee welfare and medical leave policies in the workplace, particularly within industries that rely on large numbers of factory workers. Labour rights groups have called for a review of current practices, stressing the importance of prioritising workers' health and safety.

While no further details have been released regarding the internal investigation, the case has attracted significant attention both within Thailand and internationally, highlighting ongoing concerns about the balance between work obligations and personal well-being in high-pressure working environments.