The Tribune

Happy New Year! Most of us probably had a New Year’s resolution to take control of our personal health. Losing weight has certainly been at the top of the list for those coming out of an intense December featuring too much turkey, ham and fruit cake.

Companies should consider simple ways to help their team members get in shape. Healthy employees are happy employees, and happy employees are productive employees. Good health essentially equates to good business.

Take a look at eight health and wellness options that each employee can take to their human resources teams for immediate implementation.

1. Water breaks and easily accessible water stations. While you are at it, make the water areas exciting. Since most people still have challenges getting the necessary water intake, some motivation could go a long way. Flavoured water, carbonised water, sparkling water and fruit water along with the regular purified water options might spice things up a little. Perhaps even appoint a “water boy” in the office, whose job it is to ensure everyone gets a healthy intake of water each day. If water is the natural cure to 90 percent of the illnesses affecting humans, surely this policy makes good business sense.

2. Balanced work load. Since stress is a major cause of ill-health, and work is a major cause of stress, workloads must be properly managed if employees are to lead healthier lives. Proper delegation of assignments, empowerment through providing all the tools and resources required, and a solid Employee Assistance Program to combat those overwhelming seasons in an employee’s life will all add value to the company’s wellness platform.

3. Reduced stress levels. Sometimes the stress at work has little to do with the work, but more with the environment. What might help, then, is a management style that creates a relaxed yet productive environment. Employee satisfaction surveys and leadership training might help in creating an atmosphere where employees feel excited to show up to.

4. Rest periods. Children in kindergarten immediately after lunch head for the sleep mat. Teachers have a lounge area separate and apart from their classrooms where they can retreat during their off periods. The average employee has nowhere to go when they need to take a breather. A nicely-furnished lounge with comfortable seating, and possibly a futon couch, will help your team members collect themselves for the 30 minutes of rest we all need during the course of the day.

5. Lights out…Go Home. We all know workaholics who convince themselves that they need their work and that it fulfills them. Some employees simply need to be kicked out of the office; just made to leave the premises until the next day. A healthy work-life balance for every employee should be the goal of every organisation.

6. Mandatory vacation times. This one needs no explanation. No one person should become so crucial to the operation that you cannot do without them for a few weeks. The two to five weeks of paid vacation that your team members are entitled to should all be taken. No questions asked. The change of scene is good for their health.

7. Healthy cafeteria options. If your company has no café, then that is step one. Start small and outsource a healthy choice breakfast/lunch provider. Balanced meals are an absolute must if we are to live healthy, productive lives.

8. Creating a gym room and starting an exercise class. Fitness is probably the first thing people consider when the conversation of health and wellness comes up. A shower and basic gym room can really add value to the work experience. Perhaps partnering with a local gym or contracting an aerobics instructor for two hours each evening is the right fit for your company. Whatever works, just do something!

• NB: Ian R Ferguson is a talent management and organisational development consultant, having completed graduate studies with regional and international universities. He has served organsations, both locally and globally, providing relevant solutions to their business growth and development issues. He may be contacted at iferguson@bahamas.com.