Seven in ten workers admit they have been tempted to ring in sick in order to enjoy the recent hot weather, a report has found.

According to a survey of 7,023 employers, almost eight in ten businesses have reported staff pulling a 'sickie' this week with the huge rise being blamed on a short week and the early summer-like hot weather.

Employment law firm Peninsula, who commissioned the study, also found that eight in ten employees believe there is no harm in taking a 'sickie' every now and again, providing it is not on a regular basis.

"If hot and sunny Summer's are going to be the result of global warming then the problem of workers pulling a 'sickie' will get worse," said Peter Done, managing director of Peninsula. "If you’re tempted to take time off work because of the hot weather, then you’re not alone, but before doing so think about how unfair it is towards your employer and fellow colleagues," he said.

To prevent staff pulling a 'sickie', bosses may want to introduce incentives such as free ice cream, picnic's or even an early finish providing targets are met. Also bosses need to ensure that office environments are comfortable, with the provision of air conditioning and water machines, which will help keep morale going and ensure staff are looked after.

"Bosses need to get serious and deter staff from taking 'sickie' days. Employers need to be strict they have to conduct return to work interviews which acts as a deterrent and helps find out why the workers was off sick. However do remember that some illness may be genuine so you must not go and accuse everyone of faking illness without good reason," added Done.