The problem was that the Minneapolis Fire Department was experiencing an increase in sick leave use by firefighters. Increased overtime costs and reduced daily staffing were impacting the fire department's ability to provide quality emergency service for citizens of Minneapolis. The purpose of this research was to find out why sick leave use by firefighters was increasing. The descriptive research methodology was used to answer the following questions: 1. What were other employers experiencing regarding sick leave use and what were they doing to address absenteeism? 2. Can studying the data available develop consistent patterns of sick leave use by Minneapolis Firefighters? 3. Why do Minneapolis Firefighters use sick leave? 4.What policies were in place to govern sick leave use and absenteeism in Minneapolis? The principal procedures used to complete this research consisted of a literature review, historical research regarding sick leave usage patterns by Minneapolis firefighters and a review applicable controlling documents related to sick leave use. A survey of current firefighters was conducted to determine reasons for sick leave use. The results of this survey are attached as Appendix A. The results of this research included an anylysis of sick leave usage and the findings from the survey conducted regarding sick leave use by firefighters. Legal and contractual language related to sick leave use as well as a review of sick leave management tools historically used by the fire department was also described.The recommendations of this research project include a suggestion for the development of a new training program based on the results of the research. This recommendation includes a proposed Sick Leave Management Presentation attached as Appendix B. This presentation should be given to all current employees and be part of initial orientation for new firefighters.