It's ill advised
Page 2
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FEWER man-days have been lost through industrial disputes during the past two years than for a long time. Absenteeism is also down. Good. Productivity must benefit.
However, things could now change. As from last Monday companies can operate their own selfcertification sickness scheme. No longer will a doctor be required to produce a certificate for a short-term sickness. Certification falls to the employee/patient.
Whoever dreamt up this piece of nonsense obviously has no experience of organising a labour force. This is a charter for dodgers and the workshy.
To challenge self certification is likely to lead to a union confrontation. To accept it without question, however, would be bad management.
Its misuse can and will manufacture overtime or lead to under production and therefore higher unit costs. This is the most ill conceived piece of legislation produced for years.
Naturally, it will save doctors time. Self certification for a driving licence, annual test, and the Certificate of Professional Competence would save time for the Department of Transport ... and would be just as daft.