Occupational health
What employers and employees can do
A workplace that focuses on employee health is key for the employees’ well-being and the productivity of a company. Employers and employees share the responsibility of arranging an environment that promotes the physical and mental health of all. In this article, we will highlight measures with which companies and their employees can improve occupational health. We will also explain why physical activity plays such a vital role.
According to the German Federal Statistical Office, employees in Germany took 15 days sick leave on average in 2022. About 18% of absences were down to musculoskeletal disorders, around 15% based on mental health problems. Sickness-related absences have increased steadily since the early 2000s: in 2005, the figure was 9.2 days per employee, whereas in 2023, it had risen to 15.2 days of sick leave. (Source: Statista)
Consequences of sickness-related absences
Sickness-related absences of employees present companies with various serious problems and challenges: on the one hand, they cause significant costs, for example in the form of continued pay, temporary replacement, or overtime to make up for missing employees. On the other hand, loss of productivity and earnings are a regular consequence because an increased workload will result in delays and quality issues in the long term. Employees will quickly become frustrated if they have to take over the tasks of sick colleagues for extended periods.
These factors not only impact smooth operation but can also have a long-term effect on competitiveness and employee satisfaction.
In order to minimize the problems mentioned, companies increasingly rely on measures to promote employee health: a comprehensive approach can help prevent sickness, reduce the consequences of sickness-related absences, and promote staff satisfaction.
Employer responsibility to ensure a healthy workplace
Employers have numerous options that can positively influence employee health:
Employers should ensure that all work stations are as ergonomic as possible in order to prevent back pain and other health issues. Adjustable chairs, height-adjustable desks, and flexible monitor brackets in offices are just some examples. Those regularly working from home should also be provided with the appropriate equipment.
Scheduled breaks give staff the opportunity to move around or stretch at work. Companies can also offer fitness classes or physical activities during or outside work time. Corporate sports clubs promote chances for cross-departmental interaction and solidarity.
If employees are motivated and the way to work is manageable by bicycle in terms of distance and road safety, a contribution to a work bicycle can encourage the purchase of a bicycle or e-bike. This can generally also be used during leisure time.
Furthermore, employers can offer programs or classes for managing stress and mental health to improve employee well-being.
Providing balanced meals and healthy snacks in the canteen or break rooms can improve the employees’ diet, thus promoting better health.
The option to work from home as well as flexible working hours can improve the work-life balance. This also creates more time for exercise or other activities that promote health.
Furthermore, health premiums as well as reimbursable health services, such as massages or back exercise classes, are excellent methods for motivating staff and retaining specialists in the long term.
Jobs and benefits at Bauerfeind
Would you like to know what makes Bauerfeind such a great employer, and what health benefits are offered to employees? Find out more in our Careers Portal, and match your profile with the right vacancies.
What employees can do for their health
Employees should consciously make time to move around. This won’t just help with their physical condition but also improve mental health. Regular physical activity can prevent tense muscles, stimulate circulation, and boost energy. Short walks during lunch, stretches in the office, or regularly getting up from the desk are beneficial here.
Orthopedic products from Bauerfeind – complete care
We’re offering stabilizing supports and orthoses for various areas if your joints hurt or your back causes you pain at work. For all those who mainly sit or stand at work, our medical compression stockings will provide the veins with targeted relief. Help your feet with our orthopedic foot orthoses – whether in business or safety footwear.
Please discuss with your physician whether and to what extent orthopedic aids can support you during everyday activities, at work, or during exercise.
Employees should ensure a balanced diet and consciously choose healthy snacks and meals to prevent obesity and the risks associated with it.
Learning techniques to cope with stress, such as meditation or breathing exercises, can help deal with the requirements and strains of work life and develop resilience.
Employees should have open communication with their employer or managers, and highlight their requirements for healthy working conditions and work-life balance if relevant offers do not exist.
A win-win situation for all
Overall, creating a healthy work environment is therefore a joint effort by employers and employees. The latter should make use of existing offers and benefits provided by the employers to promote occupational health, and actively demand offers that do not exist.
This will result in a work environment that is not just more productive but also ensures that employees feel happy and can continue to give their best.
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