The aim of this study was to examine the actual conditions of absence and early leave due to job stress of 4,350 workers in 83 small and medium scale industries, and its relationship to job stress factors using Korean Occupational Stress Scale-Short Form (KOSS-SF).

A structured self-reported questionnaire was used to assess each respondent's sociodemographics, job stress, experience of absence and early leave due to job stress. Seven KOSS-SF domains of job stress were used. We estimated the relation of absence and early leave due to job stress and job stress factors using logistic regression analyses.

Absence or early leave due to job stress occurred in 7% of male workers and 8% of female workers. Multiple regression analysis revealed a significantly positive association job stress-related absence/early leave and job demand, interpersonal conflict, organizational system, lack of rewards and occupational climate.

Absence and early leave due to job stress is significantly attributed to organizational system and lack of reward for men, and occupational climate and organizational system for women.