The True Cost of Workplace Absenteeism Due to Safety Issues in Calgary

Summary

Hey Calgary business owners—let’s talk about something that might be quietly cutting into your productivity and profits: workplace absenteeism caused by safety issues. This isn’t just about a few empty desks; it’s about significant financial and operational consequences. Let’s break down the real costs and explore how Calgary Safety Consultants can help you get ahead of the problem.


The Financial Impact of Absenteeism

Workplace absenteeism isn’t just an HR issue—it’s a major financial drain. In Canada, the cost of employee absenteeism is estimated at more than $16 billion annually. This includes both direct costs, like wages paid to absent employees, and indirect costs, such as lost productivity, overtime pay, and temporary staffing.

According to Statistics Canada, full-time Canadian employees miss an average of 9.5 days per year due to illness or injury. These absences interrupt workflows, burden other employees, and can delay projects or services—hurting your bottom line.

Source: Statistics Canada. (2022). Work absence of full-time employees. https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/t1/tbl1/en/tv.action?pid=1410013201

Source: Conference Board of Canada. (2013). Absenteeism: The Bottom-Line Killer. https://www.conferenceboard.ca/temp/6b2e8557-b66f-45ae-95e0-3c4ee16448ff/14-090_absenteeism_rpt.pdf

The Link Between Safety and Absenteeism

A large portion of absenteeism stems from unsafe working conditions. When workplaces lack proper safety protocols, the result is more frequent injuries, illnesses, and mental health challenges—all of which drive up absence rates.

Mental health issues alone—many tied to poor working environments—cost Canadian employers $16.6 billion annually in lost productivity.

Source: Deloitte. (2019). The ROI in workplace mental health programs: Good for people, good for business. https://www2.deloitte.com/ca/en/pages/about-deloitte/articles/mental-health-roi.html


The Hidden Costs of Safety-Related Absenteeism

The ripple effects of workplace absenteeism go far beyond payroll:

  • Lower Employee Morale: When others have to pick up the slack, stress and burnout increase.
  • Higher Turnover: Unsafe or high-stress workplaces drive people to seek safer opportunities, raising recruitment and training costs.
  • Legal and Compliance Risks: Failure to address hazards can result in fines, legal claims, and reputational damage.

How Calgary Safety Consultants Can Help

At Calgary Safety Consultants, we specialize in helping organizations reduce absenteeism by building safer, healthier workplaces. Here’s how we do it:

  • Comprehensive Safety Audits
    We evaluate your current systems to identify hazards and ensure compliance with Alberta OHS legislation.
  • Customized Training Programs
    Our practical, engaging training empowers your team to work safely and confidently.
  • Wellness Integration
    We help you align occupational health and wellness programs to support both physical and mental well-being.

Ongoing Support
Our team stays with you for the long haul, helping your safety programs evolve as your business grows.

Final Thoughts

Addressing safety-related absenteeism isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about protecting your team and your bottom line. A strong safety culture improves morale, retention, compliance, and productivity.

Ready to reduce absenteeism and improve your workplace? Let’s talk! Book your complimentary consultation today.

Stay safe, stay compliant, and keep your business running smoothly!

FAQs On The True Cost of Workplace Absenteeism Due to Safety Issues in Calgary

We assess existing safety practices, provide training, and develop systems that foster a zero-injury culture by engaging leadership and staff at all levels.

Employee engagement ensures that safety isn’t just a top-down directive but a shared responsibility. When employees are encouraged to take an active role in safety practices, it enhances a collective commitment to maintaining a safe environment.

Workplace absenteeism refers to employees missing work due to illness, injury, or workplace-related stress, often leading to productivity losses and increased costs for businesses.

When safety hazards exist, employees suffer more injuries, develop stress-related health issues, or feel unsafe, leading to increased absentee rates.

Absenteeism due to workplace injuries costs Canadian businesses billions of dollars annually in lost productivity, replacement hiring, and healthcare expenses.

Secure Your Workplace Safety Today

Calgary Safety Consultants is here to help you ensure compliance, enhance safety, and streamline your OH&S program. Don’t wait—fill out the form, and we’ll connect with you to discuss how we can support your business. Let’s get started!