Fewer sick leave reports in May, long-term absenteeism keeps pressure on the workplace high

23 June 2026

In May 2026, the average absenteeism rate in the Netherlands fell to 4.7%, compared with 4.9% in April. This marks a continuation of the usual seasonal decline. However, absences are still higher than in May figures seen over the past five years. This is based on figures from the occupational health and safety service providers ArboNed and HumanCapitalCare, both part of HumanTotalCare and jointly serving over 1 million employees. The main reason for this is the continuing rise in long-term absence, which is keeping pressure on the workplace high. At the same time, the current high temperatures are also putting strain on workplaces in many sectors.

Fewer sick reports, more long-term absence

In May, ArboNed and HumanCapitalCare recorded 39 sick reports per 1,000 employees. This is significantly fewer than in April, where there were 46 sick reports per 1,000 employees. The number of sick reports is also lower than in the same period in previous years. Despite this decline, absences remain relatively high. This is because employees who are unable to work are away for longer periods.

“Since the flu hardly accounts for any sick reports in May, we see that it is mainly employees on long-term leave who are keeping the average absence rate high,” explains Redmer van Wijngaarden, Occupational Physician and Director of Medical Affairs at ArboNed. “Stress-related absence in particular remains a major challenge. The number of employees on long-term leave as a result has risen by 43 per cent over the past five years. This is clearly reflected in the absence figures.”

Heatwave policy: a necessity, not a luxury

Alongside absenteeism trends, the current high temperatures also demand attention in the workplace. Over the past few days, the heat has placed additional strain on the workplace in many sectors. In summery or very hot weather conditions, it is important for organisations to respond appropriately. Being well-prepared is key here. “High temperatures are something that employers need to take into account on an ongoing basis. It happens every year,” says Van Wijngaarden. “Employers would be well advised to establish what measures to take in the event of a heatwave in advance. If you only start thinking about it when it’s already 35 degrees, it’s often too late.”

Looking beyond temperature alone

Simply looking at the temperature in degrees is not always enough in hot weather. “Factors such as humidity, solar radiation and wind play a significant role in determining just how demanding the conditions actually are for the body,” says Van Wijngaarden. “That is why Dutch law does not specify any fixed maximum temperatures, and why working in the heat requires a tailored approach. At the same time, we are also seeing a growing need for clear guidelines. Indicators such as the new KNMI heat intensity index, which combines multiple factors, helps to provide a clearer picture of the overall impact. This can make it easier for employers to take timely action, even on days that may appear less extreme but are in fact quite extreme in practice.”

Impact on safety and productivity

Heat can have a direct impact on how people perform at work. Employees may tire more quickly, find it harder to concentrate and recover less effectively during the working day. “That increases the risk of errors and unsafe situations,” says Van Wijngaarden. “Particularly in roles where safety, alertness and physical exertion play a key role. This is a risk that should not be underestimated.”

Small changes make a big difference

According to Van Wijngaarden, even small changes can make a big difference. “Some examples include scheduling work during cooler times of the day, temporarily reducing workloads, or introducing extra breaks.” Basic amenities also remain essential, such as adequate drinking water, shaded areas and ways to cool down. “A few relatively simple measures can help employers minimise a great deal of discomfort and risk. Establishing these measures in advance means that employees and managers are better informed about what is expected of them when the temperatures rise.”