Summer is now a distant past as the cold weather approaches and the nights close in. Absence is always a concern for employers, but this can escalate during the winter months when cold and flu viruses are rife and the days colder and shorter.
If not managed correctly, sickness absence can result in financial costs to the employer as well as disruption to colleagues in the workplace. In this article we discuss what employers can do to stay on top when temperatures drop.
Managing Short-Term Absences
An organisation’s absence management policy should provide clear guidance for dealing with any absence in a fair and consistent way, whilst also supporting the wellbeing of its employees. Occasionally, employees may need time off work for minor illnesses such as coughs and colds and stomach upsets. However, any short-term absences can soon become persistent if not managed correctly. If you suspect one too many ‘duvet days’, act promptly and hold a review meeting with the employee to discuss any increase in absence and the impact on the business. This is also an opportunity to find out the root cause of the absence and offer support if needed.
Preventing Presenteeism
Attending work while feeling under the weather is quite common. Some employees may feel the need to turn up for work despite being unwell, and in some organisations, it may be the norm to solider on through illness. However, whilst this can show commitment and dedication, the reality is that it leads to impaired performance which can cost time and money. Encouraging employees to take time off work if they are very unwell will not only give them time to recover properly, but it will also prevent the spread of infection to their colleagues. Having a wellbeing strategy in place is the basis for tackling staff retention and the dual perils of absenteeism and presenteeism.
Employee Wellbeing
Paying particular attention to employee wellbeing during the winter months can increase motivation and engagement, and result in a happier, more productive workforce. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects around 2 million people in the UK alone. Employees suffering from SAD lack energy and find it harder to concentrate on their work, so are more likely to phone in sick. With the added pressure of Christmas on the horizon, this time can be one of the most stressful times of the year. An Employee Assistance Programme can help reduce short and long-term sickness absence, particularly for those suffering from stress and anxiety.
Financial Wellbeing
Given the current economic crisis and with Christmas around the corner, there are things employers can do to help reduce the stress and worry of their workforce. A cost of living pay rise may not be affordable for many employers but there are other actions that can be taken such as providing nursery benefits, shopping discounts, and salary sacrifice schemes, or signposting employees to independent financial and debt guidance. Supporting employees with their financial wellbeing will help to alleviate money worries and stress, which could in turn help to reduce sickness absence rates.
Creating a safe workplace
Employers are required by law to ensure the health, safety and welfare of all their employees. Ensure workplaces have adequate heating and lighting and consider those working outdoors to ensure they are fully protected during bad weather. Educate employees on good hygiene practices and encourage regular handwashing or hand-sanitising to prevent the spread of infection or illness. Rain, snow and ice can all increase the risk of slips, trips and falls which account for a significant number of working days lost per year. So, it is a good time to review risk assessments in respect of outdoor working and ensure adequate control measures are in place.
Absence Data
It is important to regularly review and report absence data. Not only can this help identify patterns in absenteeism, but it may also highlight issues within the organisation and what interventions are required to make improvements.
If you’re an employer who would like further assistance implementing strategies to help reduce sickness absence rates, or if you need support with absence policies and procedures, our team are on hand to guide you through the process. Contact us on 01942 727200 or email enquiries@employeemanagement.co.uk. Alternatively, visit our website to access a whole range of FREE resources including managing long-term ill health and persistent short-term absences to mental health and wellbeing in the workplace.