Despite continuing investment in occupational health by employers significant barriers remain to reducing sickness absence, according to a survey published by EEF, the manufacturers’ organisation.

It found that more than 600 companies, almost 40% say GPs and employee resistance to rehabilitation, along with the limited capacity of the NHS to provide faster access to treatment, are preventing further reductions in sickness absence.

EEF chief medical adviser, professor Sayeed Khan, says: “Significant barriers remain and all parties need to make a step change to promote a culture of rehabilitation in the workplace.”