The Hidden Cost of Presenteeism
The Hidden Cost of Presenteeism: How to Keep Your Workforce Productive
Absenteeism often grabs attention in discussions about workplace productivity, but for contractors, there's an even subtler, more dangerous issue: presenteeism. Presenteeism occurs when employees come to work while unwell, giving the impression that work is being done. However, their productivity is significantly reduced, leading to lower-quality output and increased safety risks.
The impact on your business can be profound - mistakes, delays, and safety risks are common outcomes when workers are physically present but mentally or physically compromised.
The Real Cost of Presenteeism
It's easy to assume that a full on-site workforce means things are running smoothly. However, presenteeism is a quiet problem, creating the illusion of productivity. According to The Guardian, sickness in the UK workplace costs businesses an estimated £100 billion annually [A], with a significant part of that cost coming from presenteeism. Workers might show up, but illness or stress affects their ability to focus and perform.
Data from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) shows that presenteeism has tripled in the UK over the last decade [B]. Mental health issues like stress and anxiety are some of the most significant contributors. Ultimately, presenteeism is far more damaging than it first appears.
How Presenteeism Affects Team Morale and Safety
When employees aren't performing at their best, it's not just their work that suffers - the rest of the team also feels the impact. Colleagues may have to pick up the slack, which increases their workloads and leads to frustration and burnout. Over time, this can lower morale across the entire team.
The construction industry’s culture often prioritises toughness over well-being, which can lead to unhealthy work habits.
As Steve Bratt, CEO of the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA), explains, “Workers may continue working while unwell due to the pressure to push through, which is often encouraged by the industry's 'macho' culture” [C].
This mindset not only exacerbates presenteeism but also puts both the individual and the wider team at risk, highlighting the need for a shift towards supporting employee health.
Prioritising Health for Real Productivity
Instead of concentrating on employee attendance, businesses should also focus on supporting their workers' health to help them perform at their best. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is a smart solution to help with this. By giving employees quick and easy access to healthcare, PMI encourages them to seek treatment promptly, rather than pushing through sickness.
With PMI, the illusion of productivity that presenteeism creates can be reduced. Contractors can ensure that their workforce is not just present, but truly effective, contributing to the business at their full capacity. By preventing the costly mistakes and delays caused by presenteeism, PMI ultimately helps keep projects on schedule and within budget.
How the ECIS PMI Scheme is Tailored to the Construction Sector
Private Medical Insurance isn't just a luxury - it's a practical solution to the problems caused by presenteeism and absenteeism. The ECIS PMI scheme is specifically designed for contractors, providing key benefits:
- Fast Access to Healthcare: Contractors often work under tight deadlines. The ECIS PMI scheme provides rapid treatment access, ensuring minor health issues don't escalate and employees can return to work quickly.
- Comprehensive Mental Health Services: Mental health challenges, like stress and anxiety, are common causes of presenteeism. The ECIS PMI scheme offers extensive mental health support, including counselling, helping employees manage their well-being before it affects their productivity.
- Remote and Flexible Healthcare Options: Workers in the contracting industry often operate in remote or challenging environments. With ECIS PMI, they can access healthcare remotely without leaving their worksite or taking time off.
Take the Next Step with ECIS
Presenteeism can quietly drain your business's resources, but you can tackle it head-on with the right healthcare support. The ECIS PMI scheme offers a tailored solution to help you keep your workforce healthy, productive, and safe. Consider implementing the ECIS PMI scheme in your business today.
If you want to learn how the ECIS PMI scheme can support your business, contact the ECIS Benefits Team at ecis@ecins.co.uk or call 0330 221 0241. You can also visit the ECIS website at www.ecins.co.uk for more details.
Investing in the health and well-being of your team is not just a compassionate decision - it's a strategic move that will improve productivity, protect your workforce, and ensure projects stay on track.
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