A 3,200-year-old tablet shows that ancient Egyptians took attendance at work and recorded absences.

One type of reason cited for missing work was “wife or daughter bleeding” referring to menstruation because men were needed at home during this time to help with the housework.

A worker named Pennub missed work because his mother was ill. Other employees were absent due to their own illnesses.

One Huynefer was frequently “suffering with his eye.” Seba, meanwhile, was bit by a scorpion. Several employees also had to take time off to embalm and wrap their deceased relatives.

Some reasons may seem strange to modern ears. “Brewing beer” is a common excuse.

Beer was a daily fortifying drink in Egypt and was even associated with gods such as Hathor. As such, brewing beer was a very important activity. Fetching stones or helping the scribe also took time in the workers’ lives.