In today’s dynamic work environment, managing sick leave is a formidable task for many employers, particularly when confronting abusive sick leave – instances where employees are unjustifiably absent due to purported illness.
Such behaviour significantly impacts productivity, colleague morale, and the financial health of an organization.
What is Unlawful Absenteeism?
Unlawful absenteeism, often termed absenteeism fraud (verzuimfraude), occurs when an employee falsely claims illness to obtain time off from work. This ranges from exaggerating minor ailments to completely fabricating an illness.
Signs of Abusive Absenteeism
Indicators of potential absenteeism fraud include:
- Frequent short illness reports, often surrounding weekends or vacations.
- Inconsistencies in illness statements.
- Social media activity that contradicts the reported medical condition.
- Absence of specific medical documentation.
The Gatekeeper Improvement Act
In the Netherlands, the approach to sick leave is governed by the Wet Verbetering Poortwachter (Gatekeeper Improvement Act). Enacted in 2002, this law aims to reduce long-term sick leave and provides a structured framework for both employers and employees during the illness and reintegration process.
Under this legislation, employers and employees share responsibility for facilitating a swift return to work. The Act mandates strict timelines and procedures, including the preparation of a problem analysis, an action plan, and regular reviews.
Absenteeism Fraud
Do you feel that your employees are calling in sick more often than they should?
If so, there may be a case of absenteeism fraud. An investigation into absenteeism fraud, by an investigating agency, would provide a clearer picture and answers to your questions.
Role of Investigation Agencies in Unlawful Sick Leave Cases – Recherchebureau
When unlawful absenteeism is suspected, Investigation Agencies could be indispensable. Specialized investigators conduct discreet and professional inquiries and into the employee’s activities and behaviour. Through close observation and evidence collection, digital data analysis, and evidence gathering, they will help ascertain whether absenteeism fraud has occurred.
This allows lawyers all the evidence they need to represent companies in potential lawsuits against employees who abuse the system.
An Investigating Agency will ensure that your questions are answered during an investigation into absenteeism fraud.
Conclusion
Unlawful absenteeism is a complex issue that demands a rigorous approach. By remaining vigilant to the signs of absenteeism fraud and leveraging the expertise of an investigative agency, employers can effectively combat this form of fraud.
It is crucial though to balance careful management of sick leave with respect for employee privacy and rights, as stipulated by the Wet Verbetering Poortwachter.
A proactive approach and collaboration with an experienced partner are essential for maintaining organizational integrity and addressing abusive absenteeism effectively. With the right tools and expertise, employers can minimize the impact of absenteeism fraud on their business and foster a positive, honest work environment.
How Tempchefs can help
At Tempchefs, we understand that protecting your privacy interests is your top priority.
That’s why we will handle this process on your behalf so that you have no exposure or risk in determining the real reason for an employee’s absence.
Moreover, we handle your business information with integrity, which is highly desirable in terms of preventing reputational damage.