As temperatures rise, so do work absences

The sun is blazing high in the sky today and the number of people taking days off has skyrocketed, much like the temperature.
According to BrightHR statistics, today is the most booked off Friday of the year so far, 30% higher than an average Friday.
Today has also seen the seventh highest number of employees off so far, 81% higher than the average day this year.
Statistics show a 41% increase in sickness absence when compared to the same time last week, implying some employees are struggling with the heat – or want to bask in the sun.
Alan Price, CEO of BrightHR says: “Summer days are in short supply here in the UK and so it’s perhaps not surprising that people will want to make the most of this brilliant weather by booking time off.
“However, as sickness absences have increased exponentially today, absence management policies are as crucial as ever. Although clear evidence of dishonesty would of course be required before disciplinary action, a well-structured policy will allow organisations to take appropriate steps where the level of sickness absence reaches an agreed upon trigger point.
“In these circumstances, warnings may be issued, and the employee may be placed on an improvement plan, if necessary.
“To make employees as comfortable as possible in the office during hot weather, it’s a good idea to switch on air conditioning, use blinds or curtains to block sunlight, advise people to use sun cream – particularly where they work outside – and allow for a more relaxed dress code.
“With summer rapidly approaching, now is a good opportunity to re-examine any hot weather policies your company has in place and consider updating them, so employees know what is expected of them.”