Young municipal workers report more sick leave than older colleagues

Municipal employees under 30 took an average of 19 sick leave days last year, the highest of any age group, according to a new study by the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health.

The Kunta10 survey, covering over 90,000 workers across 11 municipalities, found clear differences in sick leave by age, gender, and occupation. Women averaged 17 sick days, while men averaged 12. Physical, care, and service workers reported more absences than managers and specialists.

Short-term sick leave was more common among younger workers, while older employees took longer absences. Overall sick leave rates have remained stable in recent years, with about one-fifth of workers reporting no sick leave at all in 2025.

Jenni Ervasti, lead researcher at the institute, advised supervisors to monitor sick leave patterns to better support staff. She noted that lifestyle changes, such as regular cycling to work, could help reduce absences.