What should an employee do if they feel ill before starting a shift?

When an employee feels ill before starting a shift, the appropriate action is to notify their supervisor and refrain from reporting for work. This approach prioritizes the health and safety of the employee, as well as that of their coworkers and the workplace environment. It prevents the potential spread of illness among staff and ensures that operational efficiency is maintained by allowing the supervisor to make necessary adjustments, such as scheduling a replacement.

Taking the initiative to communicate the situation demonstrates responsibility and professionalism. It also allows the supervisor to assess the situation effectively, which can lead to better management of staffing and resources.

The other options do not align with best practices in workplace health and safety. Continuing to work while feeling unwell can lead to decreased productivity and further health complications. Asking a coworker to cover the shift without informing the supervisor removes management's ability to effectively allocate resources and can put undue pressure on the coworker. Finally, waiting until the shift starts to inform a supervisor can lead to further complications, including potential disruption in operations and more difficulty for the supervisor in managing staffing needs.