As summer fades and the crisp, cooler days of autumn begin to arrive, workplaces across the country face more than just a shift in the weather. September marks the beginning of cold and flu season, a time when absenteeism often spikes.
Whether it’s short-term sick days or lingering illnesses, this season can bring staffing shortages, workflow interruptions, and loss of productivity. However, absenteeism doesn’t need to catch you off guard. With a proactive approach you can protect your team’s health and maintain smooth operations.
Why Does Fall Absenteeism Hit Business So Hard?
Common reasons for increased absenteeism in the fall include:
- Colds, flus, and respiratory viruses
- Children bringing home illness from school
- Weakened immune system due to stress and seasonal changes
- Burnout and fatigue due to increased workloads to cover for others
Did you know? Workplace absenteeism is estimated to cost Canadian employers 2.4% of gross annual payroll, equating to about $16.6 billion nationally. (Missing in Action: Absenteeism Trends. Conference Board of Canada. 2013).
How To Get Ahead With Preventative Measures
Taking early action can help reduce the risks of Absenteeism:
- Onsite or subsidized flu shot programs to boost immunity.
- Fit-for-duty checks to ensure employees are fully recovered before returning to work
- Telehealth services (Like First Call) for quick symptom assessment and early care.
- Promoting everyday hygiene with hand sanitizer, wipes, and clean workspaces.
Did you know? Taking proactive steps can help reduce absenteeism by up to 25% (The Impact of Employee Wellness Programs on Absenteeism. Openup. 2025)
Monitoring And Responding To Trends
Monitoring absenteeism helps you spot patterns early and respond to problems before they grow.
- Track absences by department, shift or job type
- Identify repeated short term absences or clusters
- Review data often, especially during peak illness season
- Use insights to adjust schedules, redistribute workloads, or provide extra support where needed
Did you know? Keeping an eye on absence patterns can improve return-to-work processes, getting employees back safely and sooner.
Partner with Occupational Health Experts
At Precede, we offer tailored solutions including onsite screenings, return-to-work protocols, and timely health advice designed to fit your business needs.
Fall absenteeism may be seasonal, but its impact doesn’t have to be! Preparing now means you’ll be investing in a healthier, more resilient workforce. and a smoother road through the months ahead.
Our occupational health experts are ready to help you minimize disruption and keep your team thriving this fall. Learn more at www.precedeohs.com
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