With commitment, New year resolutions are way to make positive changes. In January, many businesses also consider what they can do to improve performance and their workplace. Given the many benefits, implementing a workplace health program can be a great investment to your most valuable asset, your people. A workplace health program is an activity or range of activities that aim to support and promote the health of employees. These can be something simple and low cost, like providing fruit at work or providing opportunities for physical activity at lunchtimes.
Some quick searching will show there are large amounts of research outlining the numerous benefits for both employers and employees from having a healthy workplace.
The Australian Government’s Department of Health identify the following as key employer benefits:
- Improved work performance and productivity
- Reduced absenteeism and sick leave
- Decreased incidence of attending work when sick (presenteeism)
- Decreased frequency and cost of workers’ compensation
- Improved staff morale, satisfaction and motivation
- Improved corporate image and attraction/retention of employees
- Increased return on training and development investment
- Improved employee engagement and employee relationships
Employee benefits include:
- Increase in health awareness and knowledge
- Increase in physical health and mental wellbeing
- Improved morale, job satisfaction and motivation
- Improved opportunities for a healthier lifestyle
- Greater capacity to enjoy life both in and outside the workplace
Further references:
Title: Creating Your Healthy Workplace
Source: Australian Government – Department of Health
Title: Healthy Workplace Guide – 10 Steps
Source: Heart Foundation
Title: Ten health resolutions to make in 2014
Source: www.news.com.au