Upgraded workplace tech could save firms nine sick days per worker, study finds

Upgrading workplace tech could help businesses in Britain recover nine days per worker lost to sick leave by 2030, according to research by BT Business. 

The report found that adopting better connected tech across sectors such as retail, finance and healthcare could offset the impact of staff absence due to illness over the next five years.

UK workers took an average of 9.4 sick days last year, nearly double the amount before the pandemic, according to data from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). 

Mental health made up 41% of long-term absences and a third of short-term leave, with workplace stress affecting productivity.

The Keep Britain Working Review, supported by BT, aims to make health at work a shared responsibility between employers, employees and health services.

79% of employees reported moderate-to-high stress levels at work. 

One in four said they have quit or considered quitting due to frustrations with workplace technology. 

Nearly three-quarters (71%) of UK workers said innovations like artificial intelligence (AI) would drive efficiency, and two thirds (66%) believe it will improve work-life balance. 

97% of C-suite leaders in finance expect nearly half of tasks to be automated by 2030, while two in five people in retail described their workplace systems as basic.

Chris Sims, chief commercial officer at BT Business, said: “Unlocking productivity gains across the business community is one of the biggest challenges we face if we’re to deliver sustained economic growth nationwide. 

“We live in an increasingly digital age; only by embracing modern technologies such as AI & the cloud, and enabling them with fast, secure and reliable connectivity, will we see a healthy productivity boost.

“Innovation and automation can empower teams to deliver their best work efficiently, which boosts retention and job satisfaction.”

Sims added: “By focusing on improving connectivity over the next five years, companies will not only supercharge productivity but also take practical steps towards improving staff retention and customer experience.”