Better put the flu on your schedule

Whether it's a death in the family or the stomach flu, if you work at Lawson Products you'd better make sure it's on the schedule.

While some companies are using flexibility to reduce absenteeism, others are trying the path of more control. There are no excuses for missing work at this Illinois warehouse and service center. Any unplanned absence, whether for illness, a flat tire or your grandmother's demise, is a black mark. Punching in one minute late gets you half a point; six points brings a reprimand, 10 points, suspension without pay and 12 points in a year gets you fired. Worries one consultant, "People who are sick are treated the same as those who don't feel like coming to work. No-fault policies may cut absenteeism, but you can't plan for illness and you can catch some pretty good employees in that net."

# 20117 Chicago, IL, CHICAGO TRIBUNE, 4-18-05

COPYRIGHT 2005 Work & Family Connection, Inc.
COPYRIGHT 2005 Gale Group