Sickness absence, Q4 2002

The total sickness absence contains self-certified and doctor-certified sickness absence. Both the self-certified and doctor-certified sickness absence rates increased by 0,2 percentage points from fourth quarter 2001 to fourth quarter 2002 when the figures are rounded. The total sickness absence rate increased by 0.3 percentage points.

Through 2002 the doctor-certified sickness absence has shown a decreasing annual growths while the self-certified sickness absence has been increasing.

Increase in construction, no increase in health and social work

The annual increase from fourth quarter 2001 to fourth quarter 2002 in total sickness absence rate was highest in construction, business activities and electricity, gas and water supply.

The total sickness absence rates were unchanged for employees in financial intermediation and in health and social work from fourth quarter 2001 to fourth quarter 2002.

Lower growths for women

The annual growth in the total sickness absence for men increased from the fourth quarter of 2001 to the fourth quarter of 2002, while for women the annual growth rate has been stable. Still, women have a higher total sickness absence rate fourth quarter 2002 than men, 9.5 versus 6.5 per cent.

Doctor-certified sickness absences statistics with more details are also published on our web site: http://www.ssb.no/sykefra_en/ .

The sickness absence statistics are produced in cooperation with the National Insurance Administration (RTV).

Tables:

• Table 1 Sickness absence man-days for employees self-certified and certified by a doctor. In per cent of scheduled man-days (Sickness absence rate). Quarterly figures. 2000-2002
• Table 2 Sickness absence man-days for employees self-certified and certified by a doctor, by sex. In per cent of scheduled man-days (Sickness absence rate). Quarterly figures. 2000-2002
• Table 3 Sickness absence man-days for employees self-certified and certified by a doctor, by industry and type of sickness absence. In per cent of scheduled man-days (Sickness absence rate). Quarterly figures. 2000-2002