Poles Work While Sick but Also Take Fake Sick Leaves
A report by ENEL-MED reveals a paradox in Polish workplaces – 19 percent of employees admit to taking sick leave while healthy, while 62 percent continue working despite illness. Young workers (27 percent of Gen Z) take fake sick leaves nearly twice as often as the most experienced employees (15 percent of silvers).
Most employees avoid taking L4 due to excessive workload, lack of replacements, or fear of job loss. The study suggests that additional paid leave (39 percent) and better medical benefits (38 percent) could help reduce sick leave abuse.
"Many employees work despite illness due to social pressure, risking burnout and spreading infections," Alina Smolarek, HR Director at ENEL-MED, said.
She emphasized that a workplace culture promoting health and flexibility is key to employee well-being and long-term productivity. Managers should lead by example, encouraging a balanced approach to health and work.
(WBJ)
