A new CareerBuilder Canada survey finds that 66% of workers typically go to work when they are ill. Workplace pressures and presenteeism may be causing workers to go in when they’re feeling under the weather, as more than 60% of workers said they feel guilty if they call in sick.
The CareerBuilder survey polled 550 workers across Canada from Nov. 15 to Dec. 2, 2010.
With so many workers heading to work ill, they are likely passing on their germs to others. Nearly six out of 10 workers (58%) said they have gotten sick from a co-worker who came to the office sick, while 21% said they picked up a bug from someone who was sick on public transportation going to or from work.
“It’s important for employees to take care of their health and the health of others by staying at home if they aren’t feeling well,” said Rosemary Haefner, vice-president of HR at CareerBuilder.ca. “Even if workers feel pressure to be at the office, they should talk to their managers about staying home if they are sick or ask about other options such as working remotely. Most employers are flexible and understand that employees are more productive if they are feeling their best.”
To help encourage a healthy workplace, 12% of employees said their companies provided flu shots at their office. Twenty-eight percent of respondents said they were proactive and got a flu shot this year.
Haefner offers the following tips for staying well at work:
- Don’t share your germs: If you are sick, do your best to keep your germs away from others by staying home. If you absolutely must come into the office, try to work in a conference room or away from others so you don’t spread your sickness. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and wash your hands or use hand sanitizer frequently.
- Keep it balanced: With many workers facing heavier workloads and longer hours, some may be feeling maxed out. Be sure to manage your stress and stay healthy by taking a break during the day, exercising or even practising yoga or meditation.
- Talk it out: If you are concerned about taking days off work when you are ill, talk to your manager or HR department so that you have a clear understanding of how your sick days can be used. Offer to telecommute, delegate or call in if necessary, but ensure that you get as much rest as possible so you are back on your feet soon.