8 in 10 businesses hit by workers faking illness to enjoy sunshine

09/05/2008

High temperatures and glorious sunshine left businesses short staffed this week, after thousands of workers called in sick so they could enjoy the weather.

Eight in 10 businesses have been hit by the ‘sickie epidemic’, research has suggested.

The figures, by employment law firm Peninsula, found seven in 10 employees said they were tempted to call in sick, with a further 80% saying they believe there’s no harm in occasional skiving, provided it’s not on a regular basis.

Peter Done, the firm’s managing director, warned global warming could make the problem worse.

“To prevent staff pulling a sickie, bosses may want to introduce incentives such as free ice cream, picnics or even an early finish, providing targets are met,” he advised.

“Bosses need to ensure office environments are comfortable, with the provision of air conditioning and water machines, which will keep morale going and ensure staff are looked after.

“Be serious and deter staff from taking sickie days. Employers need to be strict – conduct return to work interviews, which acts as a deterrent and helps to find out why the worker was off sick,” he said.

“However, do remember some illnesses may be genuine, so don’t accuse everyone of faking illness without some good reason,” he added.