Certified Disability Management Specialist (CDMS) Practice Exam

Incidental absence refers to unplanned, often short-term instances of employee absence that occur unexpectedly, usually due to personal emergencies like illness or family issues. This type of absence is distinct from other forms, as it does not follow a predictable pattern and is generally not arranged in advance.

The choice that identifies incidental absence as a large cost driver that is least monitored speaks to its impact on organizations. Incidental absences can accumulate and lead to significant productivity losses, often without the organization having a clear understanding of the frequency or causes of these absences. Additionally, because they are unpredictable and not typically part of an employee's planned leave, they can catch management off-guard in terms of staffing and operational planning. This lack of monitoring can exacerbate the cost implications of these absences, making it crucial for organizations to develop strategies to manage and potentially reduce the number of incidental absences.