The importance of having an Absence/Sick Leave Policy
As an employer, it can be quite a daunting prospect having to deal with sick leave and long-term sick leave can throw up other issues making it seem more complicated and even more daunting for the employer to deal with effectively. So how can an employer ensure compliance during these periods of absence?
First and foremost an Absence/Sick Leave Policy needs to be put in place. It must contain clear and concise guidelines for the employee and employer to follow in cases of absence
Your Absence Policy should include:
1. Details of any company Sick Pay Policy:
- If an employer will/will not pay employee while on certified/uncertified sick leave.
- If payments are to be made, length of term for payments.
2. Notification and certification requirements if employees are absent due to illness:
- How much notice an employee needs to give an employer if they will be absent from work.
- After how many days of absence a medical certificate is required.
- For long-term absences, how often a medical certificate is required to be presented to the employer.
3. A statement that in the case of long-term absence due to illness, the employee may be required to attend a company GP or other nominated medical persons/facilities at the request of the employer.
It would also be advisable to include details on what is classed as being short-term, long-term and unauthorised absences - Unauthorised leave is absence by the employee without consent or approval from management or without proof of illness by means of a doctors certificate and should be dealt with as a matter of misconduct via the company disciplinary procedures.
As with most company policies and procedures, once in place, the employees will be aware of what is expected of them during times of absence or sick leave; this, in turn, should eliminate any further issues from arising.
Bright Contracts has a comprehensive Absence and Sick Leave Policy built into the Company Handbook which can be customised to suit your own company specifications and requirements.
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