What is workplace health promotion?
The European Network for Workplace Health Promotion has defined
Workplace health promotion is the combined efforts of employers, employees and society to improve the health and well-being of people at work. This can be achieved through a combination of (1) improving the work organisation and the working environment; (2) promoting active participation; and (3) encouraging personal development. (Source)
as the combined efforts of employers, employees and society to improve the health and well-being of people at work. This places particular emphasis on improving the work organisation and working environment, increasing workers' participation in shaping the working environment, and encouraging personal skills and professional development.In general,
Workplace health promotion is the combined efforts of employers, employees and society to improve the health and well-being of people at work. This can be achieved through a combination of (1) improving the work organisation and the working environment; (2) promoting active participation; and (3) encouraging personal development. (Source)
focuses on issues such as:- Health education and training;
- Work-life balance (social network, family welfare, commuting conditions);
- Stress and mental well-being; and
- Lifestyle (nutrition, physical activity, tobacco and alcohol).
The Scottish Centre for Healthy Working Lives has an awards programme where advice and specialist support can be given to organisations to help them develop health promotion and safety activities. Their case studies show how smaller organisations can incorporate health promotion and safety to improve working lives.
The role of the OSH professional
OSH professionals play a vital role in implementing effective health and well-being initiatives. During such processes, it is important to work closely together with the employer and HR.