Published February 2001

Supportive workplace enhances attitudes, habits

When you walk in the door to work each day, how do you feel? Do your co-workers look happy to be there? Do you feel comfortable, welcome and excited to tackle the many challenges that each workday will bring? Believe it or not, the work environment can have a dramatic effect on the health and productivity of employees.

In a supportive work environment, employees believe the organization they work for provides encouragement, resources, benefits, personal advancement and opportunity as well as rewards for healthy lifestyles. As a result, the work force is naturally more productive, loyal and in a better frame of mind to do work.

Thus, a work environment that supports employees and their health not only benefits employees but also has far-reaching benefits for the employer.

Below are examples of a supportive work environment:

• Attempts by employees to adopt healthy lifestyles are encouraged.
• Wellness programs are offered on a regular basis.
• Onsite fitness facilities are available or corporate fitness memberships are provided as an employee benefit.
• Healthy cafeteria food or vending-machine options are provided.
• Bike racks have been installed.
• Safety training is provided regularly to meet industry standards.
• Lockers/showers are available for employees who work out.
• There is an employee benefits plan that supports the entire family unit and rewards good health.
• Employee Assistance Program services are offered and promoted.
• There are flexible work schedules.
• Heating and ventilation are adjustable, comfortable and healthful.
• Lighting is appropriate.
• Alcohol and drug policies are appropriate to the industry.
• There are absenteeism policies that reward employees who don’t use sick days.

Ron Burt, M.Ed., is the Manager of Prevention Services at Providence Everett Medical Center. If you have a question you’d like answered in this column, send it to Ron Burt, Prevention Services, Providence Everett Medical Center, P.O. Box 1147, Everett, WA 98206 or e-mail to rburt@providence.org.

Back to the top/February 2001 Main Menu