Unions representing healthcare workers say they won't accept being treated differently under new isolation rules for close contacts.
Anyone living in the same household as someone with Covid now has to restrict their movements for at least five days.
The HSE has said an exception to the rule is being considered for healthcare staff to avoid large numbers being off work.
Kevin Figgis is from SIPTU, which is among three unions opposing the plan.
"What we're saying is there is a responsibility on the employer, there is a duty of care to minimise risk.
"If it's a case that your own stats are suggesting that the greatest risk is staff who are close to an infection are bringing it into the work place, then you need to minimise that risk."
