It has been over a year since businesses and everyone around us started to feel the impact of Covid-19. With restrictions on travel both internationally and domestically, holiday plans are being put on hold. It comes as no surprise, that where businesses continue to operate, annual leave requests have been cancelled left, right and centre.
Whilst it is understandable that employees are not booking holidays away, as an employer it is important to ensure that employees are still taking a reasonable break from work. A reasonable break does not mean a long weekend; it really should be at least a week off work. Employers will find that employees feel they are wasting leave if they take it and do not go away, however the employer has a duty of care to their employees to ensure that leave is being utilised.
If employees are encouraged to take leave, the business and employee will benefit greatly:
- Reduction in fatigue
- Reduction in sick leave and unplanned absences
- Reduction in Workcover claims
- Improvement in morale
- Reduced minor grievances within teams
- A well rested and motivated workforce results in increased productivity.
- Increased retention rates
Where employees have built up excess leave, in accordance with the relevant award, the employer can direct their employees to take leave.
If you know your employees are feeling the strain and showing signs of fatigue, it is important that you act now to ensure the well-being of your workforce.
If you need assistance addressing your employees about taking leave; please get in touch. Integrated Human Resourcing is an outsourced HR firm based on the Gold Coast, Australia.
Contact us here or call 5613 1846 / info@humanresourcing.com.au