Workplace absenteeism figures at a record high

SICK days are at a record high, according to a new report, with development experts describing the rise as a “troubling trend.”

- BY LARISSA NOLAN

Escalating employee stress levels and increased workload mean stress, burnout and conflict are all on the increase, the report reveals.

Managers spend almost a full month a year dealing with workplace issues, while also keeping working-from-home staff engaged.

And mental health issues are now the second most common reason for taking days off work sick, it has emerged.

Absenteeism from work is expected to reach 8.5% this year - rising from 5.6% three years ago - according to the findings from Adare HR and Employment Law services.

Company head Sarah Fagan explained: "Absenteeism is not simply a standalone issue - it's a key indicator of broader organisational health.

"The findings from our HR barometer report around absence management point to a particularly troubling trend."

They say it's a critical sign of overall workplace health and performance and comes at a time when working from home and economic pressures are hitting organisations.

The figure has significant implications for productivity and operational costs.