The New South Wales Chamber of Commerce has warned the state’s employers that they run the risk of footing a bill of up to $482 million this flu season if they don’t review their health and hygiene policies.

 

The Business Chamber has estimated the likely cost of the flu season on the state’s economy based on one in ten employees falling ill and requiring a week of recuperation.

 

The last thing NSW businesses need is a $482 million flu bill, so now is the time to be checking hygiene policies and reminding employees that flu season is upon us,” said Stephen Cartwright, CEO of the NSWBusiness Chamber.

 

”We conservatively estimate the average cost of an employee off sick with the flu to be about $1,300 – that doesn’t factor in the cost of temp staff.”

 

Mr Cartwright said that employers and employees need to be vigilant and take preventive steps to reduce the chances of workplace infections.

 

“My advice to employees is don’t risk it – if you think you are coming down with the flu see a doctor. Each person infected with the flu costs an employer over $1,300 for every week they are off work.

 

The Chamber has offered the following suggestions:

  • Ensuring somebody within the company is responsible for keeping up to date with the latest influenza developments and information;
  • Communicating relevant information to employees, but without causing undue alarm;
  • Emphasising the importance of hygiene, such as regular and thorough hand washing;
  • Employers and employees agreeing on appropriate leave arrangements when they have flu symptoms.