One in six workers will make contact with their workplace while on holiday this summer, according to new research from global recruitment and human resources consultancy, Hudson.
A further one in seven will not even take a holiday during the summer, instead choosing to work throughout.
According to the poll, conducted for Hudson by YouGov, of those who plan to check in by phone or email with work when they are on holiday this summer, the majority (79%) expect to do so more than once a week and a quarter of those will contact work at least once every day.
Male workers are the worst culprits, with one in five (20%) planning to log on or dial in this holiday, compared with one in eight (12%) women. Londoners are the UK's biggest workaholics, with one in four (23%) expecting to connect with the office while on their summer break. Scottish workers are the least likely to check in, with only 15% planning to contact work during the holidays.
Geraldine Hetherington, Chief Operating Officer of Hudson UK, said that working through holidays was a "false economy.
"Without proper relaxation, you won't benefit from taking the time off and will return even more or just as stressed as when you left. Ultimately, you'll be less productive in the long term," she said.
"Employers should make it clear to their employees that they don't expect them to connect with the office while they are on holiday - and colleagues should be prepared to take on each other's workload so that everyone gets the proper break they deserve."
Hudson's advice for workers is to take a break and not be tempted to check in to the office this summer:
* Block some time out: Keep some time free in your diary before you go so you have a chance to finish off work and can avoid taking on new jobs at the last minute. Do the same for your first day back, too, so that you give yourself a chance to catch up during work time.
* Recycle: Clear your in-box, in-tray, desk or workspace before you go and ensure you are organised and up-to-date for your return.
* Email notice: Put an 'out of office' message on your emails and on your telephone. If people know you're away, they won't expect a response and you'll be less tempted to check in. Make sure you direct them to another colleague to minimise hassles on your return.
* Advance warning: Give plenty of notice - hand over as much as possible in advance and ensure all your team, clients, colleagues and employers know you're going to be away and will not be contactable.
* Keep the PDA/Laptop/Blackberry at home: Don't give yourself the option of checking in and, if possible, keep your mobile off. Only respond to urgent messages.
