What is Absenteeism Rate?
For a healthy absenteeism rate, 1.5% is what you should be aiming for. Absence is impossible to prevent. If an employee takes 3-4 days off a year because of illness, this is normal and will not affect your absenteeism rate that much.
Average Absenteeism Rate In South Africa
Most South African companies have an overall absenteeism rate of between 3.5% and 6%, which is way over the acceptable limit and equates roughly to between 8 and 15 days per colleague per year.
In an office of just 50 colleagues, this would equate to approximately 400 to 750 productive days lost annually to sickness.
What causes a high rate of absenteeism in South Africa?
The prevalence of absenteeism is said to be a direct consequence of abuse of sick leave by SAPS employees. Most participants indicated that employee absenteeism was the result of excessive sick leave taken by employees of the SAPS Akasia Police Station.
What is considered excessive absenteeism?
Excessive absenteeism is defined as two or more occurrences of unexcused absence in a 30-day period and will result in disciplinary action. Eight occurrences of unexcused absence in a 12-month period are considered grounds for termination.
Can I dismiss an employee for Unauthorised absence?
Act, an employee who was absent for a period exceeding 10 consecutive days without authorisation or informing the employer of the reason for such absence, could be dismissed even for a first offence
Is calling in sick an excused absence?
Sick or medical leave is another type of excused absence. Oftentimes, to have sick time excused, you need to have a doctor’s note as proof that you visited a healthcare professional and possibly that you are also cleared to return to work.
How can HR reduce absenteeism?
Here are the best strategies you can employ to reduce employee absenteeism:
- Create a clear attendance policy
- Reward good attendance
- Address unsanctioned absences immediately
- Improve employee well-being
- Offer flexible work options
- Encourage employee engagement
- Foster a teamwork culture
- Provide feedback