How to create a pragmatic culture of health at the workplace

Health always comes first. Although some companies put customers first, the most powerful ones always care more about the employee’s health.

No health<No function<No product<No customers

One of the most pragmatic ways to put health at the priority is to build a culture of health where all the employees can imitate good health habits reciprocally.

In this very blog, we intend to investigate the importance of a culture of health, recommending some tips to create one at the workplace.

What is a culture of health?

A culture of health is a workplace environment supporting and encouraging healthy behaviors. Its primary purpose is to improve health, meaning a company’s practices, policies, and norms must support employees’ health.

However, it does not include office perks or paying employees to assist in wellness programs. On the contrary, a culture of health covers the systems of support. For instance, the technology to work remotely, leadership, and vacation policies to create a foundation emphasizing well-being.

A company that still does not have a culture of health can readily create one. Culture has always been fluid and can be developed regularly. It’s never too late to begin.

What is the importance of the culture of health?

In addition to the wellness of the employees, a culture of health provides remarkable financial benefits to a company.

Unwell employees cost employers too much in productivity each year. As you know, the lack of productivity decreases:

• • Innovation
  • Creativity
  • Engagement

And increases:

•  Obesity status
•  Rates of healthcare utilization
• Workplace absenteeism and performance
•  Occurrence of chronic diseases

Provided that, the company will be able to reach its economic potential.

A culture of health also matters for new employees, as a company that cares about employees’ well-being is highlighted, among others. This way, meaningful benefits come along with the culture of health.

Social network theory debates how an environment can influence personal health behaviors, like going on a healthy diet, working out, or using tobacco. It’s interesting to know that obesity can become widespread through social ties. In other words, the chances of becoming obese increase when your families or friends are becoming obese. This way, the slim employee may find obesity natural. Then they won’t be worried about gaining weight. This theory goes beyond physical health.

The influence of social networks can create a culture of health to encourage employees to live healthier lives.

Tips for creating a culture of health

Building a culture of health requires the entire organization’s collaboration. You can use these steps to make it happen:

Administration

The culture is reinforced as leaders act as role models. All the leaders must participate in the culture of health programs. It may include leaving the office by 6:00 to teach others the work/life balance. Also, leaders can talk intentionally about their good wellness habits to spread them through employees.

Customized wellness program

A culture of health should contain a customized wellness program. Occasionally, employees do not like to participate in wellness programs as the offerings do not match their specific needs. These needs can differ from one employee to another, depending on their job functions and geographic locations. You should be wise enough to ask employees what they want.

Well-being is personal, and every employee has their own specific needs. That’s why a wellness program should include a variety of options to make the most of it.

Productive interactions

A wellness program only works when others know there is one. Unfortunately, in a recent study, only 16% of employees knew where to find the offered well-being resources. Employers should use emails, physical and online flyers, messaging applications, and word of mouth to inform others about the wellness program.

Well-being practices

You should shift a culture of health into the day-to-day practice of the whole organization. This may also include:

• Family leave
• Standup or walking meetings
• Flexible work hours
• Not sending emails after work

The leaders can also emphasize health by preparing healthy food during the meetings, preferring water over coffee, and scheduling stretch and movement breaks.

Let’s recap!

Keep in mind that generating a culture of well-being is not a one-day program. Instead, you should repeatedly endeavor to reach the goal.

A culture of health can begin to develop when you and your employees are committed to the wellness program. At first, it may seem complicated. However, you can do everything you want as long as you make it a habit.

Southern Nevada Occupational Health Center can guide you through the way. Snohc covers all the occupational diseases, whether they need treatment, test, or consolation. You can always set an appointment online or call (702) 874-4769 to receive our services.