The cost of working while ill, known as pre-senteeism or sickness presence, could account for 1.5 times more lost time than the cost of illness-related absence, according to a British study investigating the links between pre-senteeism and performance.
A study published by The Work Foundation discovered found employers might be underestimating employee ill health and missing warning signs by focusing on absence only.
The research reports 45 percent of employees noted one or more days working while unwell during a 4-week period. But only 18 percent reported one or more days of absence over the same time. The findings suggest those who took sick time were also more likely to work when ill.
According to lead author Katherine Ashby, “In the current economic climate, with high job insecurity making employees more wary of taking time off, understanding the causes and effects of sickness presence is critical.” (WCxKit)
Ashby added that measuring pre-senteeism may provide a more reliable picture of an organization’s health-related productivity losses.
A study published by The Work Foundation discovered found employers might be underestimating employee ill health and missing warning signs by focusing on absence only.
The research reports 45 percent of employees noted one or more days working while unwell during a 4-week period. But only 18 percent reported one or more days of absence over the same time. The findings suggest those who took sick time were also more likely to work when ill.
According to lead author Katherine Ashby, “In the current economic climate, with high job insecurity making employees more wary of taking time off, understanding the causes and effects of sickness presence is critical.” (WCxKit)
Ashby added that measuring pre-senteeism may provide a more reliable picture of an organization’s health-related productivity losses.
Author Rebecca Shafer, Attorney/Consultant, President, Amaxx Risks Solutions, Inc. has worked successfully for 20 years with many industries to reduce Workers’ Compensation costs, including airlines, healthcare, printing/publishing, pharmaceuticals, retail, hospitality and manufacturing. Contact: RShafer@ReduceYourWorkersComp.com.
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WC Calculator: http://www.reduceyourworkerscomp.com/calculator.php
TD Calculator: http://www.reduceyourworkerscomp.com/transitional-duty-cost-calculator.php
Do not use this information without independent verification. All state laws vary. You should consult with your insurance broker or agent about workers' comp issues.
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