Defence Industry - Combating Sickness and Absence
Positive steps to reduce high levels of sickness and absence.
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A client in the defence industry had historically suffered high levels of sickness and absence. However, it was now keen to enhance the services of its in-house occupational health team in order to reduce the absence rate and introduce a more structured approach to employee health and wellbeing.
Sickness and Absence Referrals
Working closely with their HR department, we introduced a new sickness and absence referral system whereby employees who had more than 21 consecutive days absent, or who took a high number of short term absences in one year, were referred to our occupational health advisor. Following any consultation, we provided a concise report on the employee’s case that helped management decision-making ensure productivity of the team or department was maintained.
Structured Health Monitoring
To complement this policy, we also created a more structured health monitoring system that improved record-keeping and electronically alerted those employees that were required to undertake health assessments.
Pre-Placement Assessment
We have also taken on and improved the company’s pre-employment health assessment programme. All candidates complete questionnaires, which are analysed by our occupational health advisors to suggest suitability to the role. This simple process helps to identify any employees that might prove unfit for the duties of the role or who might be adversely affected by it in the long-term.
Health Education
We also introduced a structured approach to health education and training. We trained a number of staff members to undertake in-house workstation assessments, which are available to any employee that requests or needs it. We also delivered a series of courses covering:
How senior managers can make the most of occupational health services.
Stress awareness.
Additionally, we are running monthly health promotion campaigns that focus on a different topic each month. Supporting information is displayed on the staff intranet and on notice boards.
The Result
We have made a huge difference to the occupational health department and the company in general. The whole look and feel of the occupational health offering has been improved – as has the way in which managers understand and use it. The sickness absence has already been reduced, but we are continuing to work with the client to reduce it even further.
Feedback from managers proves that they are delighted with our new reporting systems and the massive difference it has made to their decision-making.
Overall, the new structured approach to occupational health has had a dramatic effect on this company and resulted in a healthier and happier workforce with increased performance and productivity.
Get in Touch
To learn more about how Vitality Healthcare can help your organisation, or to discuss a specific issue or requirement, please contact our team on 0800 294 6797 or by This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .
