When addressing excessive sick leave in staff, what is a key step a Lieutenant should take?

Identifying the causes of excessive sick leave is crucial for effectively managing staff attendance and maintaining a healthy work environment. By understanding the underlying issues—whether they are related to personal health problems, workplace stress, or other factors—a Lieutenant can develop targeted strategies to address these concerns. This proactive approach not only helps in reducing unnecessary absenteeism but also promotes an inclusive atmosphere where staff feels supported.

Focusing solely on attendance regulations without addressing the root causes may lead to resentment or disengagement among the staff, while disregarding the issue altogether can exacerbate the problem. Encouraging time off without understanding the reasons for excessive sick leave may not solve the underlying issues and could potentially lead to increased absenteeism in the long run. Thus, identifying causes is a foundational step in developing effective policies and practices to improve overall attendance.