As ways of working continue to evolve, so too does the landscape of employee absence. With many organisations embracing a mix of office, remote, and hybrid setups, it’s worth asking: does where people work influence how often they take sick leave?

Recent trends suggest that work location can have a noticeable impact on absence levels – but the picture is more nuanced than it might first appear.

Office Workers: Higher Visibility, Higher Absence?

Employees who work full-time in the office tend to record higher sickness absence rates than their remote or hybrid counterparts. This could be partly down to visibility – being physically present makes it easier (and sometimes more necessary) to report and record absences.

There’s also the environmental factor. Offices can be hotspots for seasonal bugs, and the daily commute can contribute to fatigue and stress, both of which can affect overall health.

Remote Workers: Working Through Illness?

On the other end of the scale, remote workers often take fewer sick days. But this doesn’t always mean they’re healthier. In some cases, remote employees may be more inclined to work through illness, especially with easier access to their work setup and the absence of commuting pressures.

While this might seem like a positive in terms of productivity, it raises concerns around presenteeism – where employees continue to work while unwell, potentially slowing recovery and reducing the quality of work.

Hybrid Workers: A Healthier Middle Ground?

Interestingly, hybrid workers often fall somewhere in between. With a balance of in-office interaction and at-home flexibility, this approach can support both well-being and productivity. The ability to adjust work environments may help reduce stress and exposure to illness, contributing to more balanced absence levels.

What This Means for Employers

Understanding how different working models impact absence is crucial for building supportive policies and systems. It’s not just about tracking time off — it’s about gaining insights that can shape your approach to employee health and well-being.

Whether your team is office-based, fully remote, or somewhere in between, having the right tools in place makes all the difference.

Want to see how LeavePlanner can help you track and manage reduce sickness absence?

Call Steve on 01252 636 070 or email support@leaveplanner.com.