Absenteeism to hit record high in 2022, study says

A development not only linked to the Covid-19 pandemic. Compared to 30% in 2019, 44% of employees were absent from work for at least one day, reaching a record level in 2022. Barometer published by AXAMonday, May 22.

According to the study, this increase can be explained by a sharp increase in short-term layoffs “may be relevant” For epidemic waves, for example, with omicron variation at the beginning of last year.

The insurer also specifies “A Hike” Absence is particularly due to underlying disorders such as psychosis or musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). For the second year in a row, mental disorders are the leading cause of long-term absence from work (22.2%, +4 points compared to 2019), ahead of MSDs (21.2%).

Young people are particularly affected

The increase in attendance affected all age groups, but younger people (those under 30) were affected even more: their rate of attendance increased by more than 50% between 2019 and 2022. In comparison, the increase was 34.3% among 45-50 year olds.

All sectors are concerned. Mainly the food trade shows the highest absentee rate, 6.8% against 4.5% overall. Axa estimates the direct cost of absenteeism to be 4.4% of wages in 2022, compared to 3.4% in 2019.

By 2023, the study predicts “a little drop” Absent, but not returning to pre-Covid conditions, with indicators “To a much greater extent than in 2019”.