If you are unable to work due to illness, you need to notify your employer as soon as you can. The procedure for reporting sickness may differ, so find out what applies to you.
If you are ill for more than 7 days, you must present a sickness certificate showing that you are too ill to work. If there are special reasons or if a collective agreement in force allows it, the employer may request an earlier sickness certificate.
If the period of sickness lasts longer than 14 days, you can receive sickness benefit from the Social Insurance Agency and supplementary sick pay through your collective agreement.
Preventing sick leave through a good working environment
Systematic and preventive work environment management is crucial to reduce the risk of both physical and mental ill health at work. By identifying risks at an early stage, creating a safe working environment and working actively with stress management, many sick leaves can be prevented. Read more about work environment here.
Trade unions have an important role to play in prevention. Together with safety representatives, they ensure that employers take their responsibility for the work environment and that employees' rights are respected. The union can also provide support if you feel that the work environment is affecting your health.