Health and wellbeing in the workplace improves safety ...
Because:
- 1 in 6 workers in Great Britain suffer from mental health issues
- 1 in 8 of the working age population report having a musculoskeletal disorder (MSK) problem
- 1 in 5 adults say they have had suicidal thoughts at some point in their lives
From a safety perspective, we know that happier workforces are safer ones. Why?
Because:
- They enjoy better sleep so are more alert
- Take fewer sick days
- Are better employees, helping to create the right environment for safer working
While workplace wellbeing has perhaps been considered in the past to be a little too hands on, this is no longer the case with many companies and businesses embracing it. Why?
Because:
- Employees who feel cared for by their employer are 27% more likely to stay with them for more than five years (ICM Research, 2014). This is a considerable financial incentive when you consider that the average cost of replacing a member of staff earning £25,000 or more is £30,614 (Cass Business School, 2013).
Health and safety, as we have said before, is not sexy, it can be the one thing that is considered an unnecessary evil but it’s vital to keeping your employees and those that visit your premises safe. It is not the killjoy that prevents you putting up the Christmas decorations in the office - sorry if it’s too early to mention the ‘c’ word but a great example – it is about keeping employees’ safe at work, preventing injury and worse a fatality.
When health and safety is managed well, nobody will notice and when staff are involved in the process it works even better! It should increase efficiency in business operation, provide a safe environment for staff and in turn create a happy and more effective workforce! It’s a win, win!
Thinking about ways to improve in the workplace or even develop a wellbeing strategy? Then call 01722 326 390 today.