INVESTIGATING THE CAUSES OF ABSENTEEISM AT THE WORKPLACE: EVIDENCE FROM THE SOUTH AFRICAN ORGANISATION
Currently, there is a great interest in comprehending the causes of employee absenteeism at the workplace, with various organisations attempting to create a conducive environment for productivity. However, there is evidence of ongoing confusion regarding the main causes of absenteeism at the workplace. Hence, the purpose of this study is to investigate the causes of absenteeism at the workplace. The study adopted a descriptive research design and quantitative research approach. The data was gathered from 251 employees using a close-ended questionnaire. The collected data was analysed using the computerised Statistical Programme for the Social Sciences (SPSS version 27 for Windows). The results indicated various causes of absenteeism of employees at the workplace. However, the study found that interpersonal difficulties, supervisors not managing and regulating employees properly, money problems, employees not being treated fairly at work, and employee performance concerns are some key causes of absenteeism at the workplace. Hence, debates concerning what would constitute causes of absenteeism have been settled by this study. Multiple interventions are needed to combat absenteeism. The management should develop an Employee Assistance Programme implementation plan for every problem category, monitoring and evaluation tool assist employees who face both personal and work-related issues. The study underscores the fundamental aspects that cause absenteeism which in turn assist managers and policy makers to implement sound decisions. The study provides guidance for future research and practice on how best to counter the identified causes of absenteeism.
Employee Absenteeism, Causes of Absenteeism, Presenteeism, South Africa, Productivity.