How a safer workplace reduces absenteeism
People who work in a well-organised, risk-free environment feel safer and are less likely to be absent from work. Conversely, unplanned absenteeism can actually compromise safety, due to the extra workload or less experienced replacements. Read on to find out how employers can break the negative link between absenteeism and safety.
1. Don’t let unsafe working conditions lead to higher absenteeism
A workplace that devotes insufficient attention to safety often leads to more occupational accidents. This has direct consequences: employees are absent due to injuries and absenteeism rates rise. And it involves more than physical safety alone. If employees see that no measures are taken to improve safety following an accident, it can lead to a lack of trust in management. Employees may also experience additional stress or anxiety because they don’t feel safe, and are absent from work for that reason. It is still often underestimated, but the psychosocial stress caused by an unsafe work environment can be just as harmful as physical hazards.
Tip: Make preventive investments in a safe work environment through proper risk analysis, regular checks and clear communication of safety procedures. Use your occupational accident analysis as a source of prevention information and optimise your policies.
Tip: Encourage employees to talk to their manager if they have reservations or concerns about safety or certain risks. You can also use regular consultation meetings, confidential advisers and anonymous reporting systems for safety issues.
2. Ensure occupational safety during (long-term) absenteeism
An increased absenteeism rate can result in unsafe working conditions. Remaining employees may face an additional workload if no replacement is available, increasing the risk of errors and unsafe situations.
Even if you do use temporary or less experienced workers, it can pose a risk to occupational safety. These employees are often less familiar with company-specific safety protocols, which increases the risk of new accidents.
Tip: Provide a structured onboarding process for (temporary) workers and offer them extra support in the field of safety. You can also develop a mentoring programme, in which experienced employees pass on their knowledge.
Tip: A safety prevention adviser plays an important role in creating a safe work environment and fostering a culture of well-being. The prevention adviser and hierarchical line should engage in structural consultation to identify risks and hazards related to well-being.
3. Commit to a strong well-being culture as a basis for preventing absenteeism
Organisations that promote an active well-being culture tend to have lower rates of absenteeism and greater employee engagement. Investments in training, ergonomic adjustments and mental health results in fewer accidents and less absenteeism.
A proactive absenteeism policy plays a crucial role in this too. Employers who not only view absenteeism as a problem but also as a sign they need to improve their work environment can actually turn the tide.
- Tip: Invest in well-being programmes, for example by providing training on ergonomics and psychological support, and helping your managers acquire a basic knowledge of safety.