A Study on Abseentism in Private Manufacturing Industry

Abstract

Absenteeism has been variously defined by the Authorities from time to time. Thus the term Absenteeism refers to the workers absence from his regular task, when he is scheduled to work. Any employees stay away from work if he has taken leave to which he is entitled or on the grounds of sickness or some accident without any previous sanction of leave. Nevertheless usually, involuntary lay off, lack of work, authorized leave or vacation period of work stoppage are not counted as absence. Strikes, lockouts and late attendance are treated as absence.

Information regarding absenteeism among workers in an industrial establishment because of reasons other than strikes, lockouts, lay-off, weekly rest or suspension, provide a sound database for gauging the employee’s morale, commitment and level of job satisfaction, which have a direct bearing on productivity of the establishment. It is one of the indicators to monitor and evaluate various labour welfare programs and labour policies.

Every organization, irrespective of size and composition, is plagued by the problem of absenteeism. Managers know that employees are not always genuinely sick when they fail to turn up for work, yet they cannot stop them from calling in sick or saying that they have to attend to some personal work. There could be hordes of reasons for absenteeism. Sometimes an employee may not simply turn up for work because his morale is low or he is just not motivated to work.

It is observed that if employees were happy doing their work, they would be less inclined to take even a day off. Many employers think that paying their workers handsomely or providing better working conditions or improving job security can reduce absenteeism. But such benefits do not guarantee a reduction in employee absenteeism. The solution actually lies in understanding and meeting the emotional needs of workers and trying to find out what really motivates them to come to work and give their best.

Key Words: Abseentism, Employee Assistance