Recognising healthy workplaces

Workplaces are being called on to apply for recognition under the ‘Recognised Healthy Workplace’ program, an initiative by Healthier Workplace WA (HWWA).

Under the web-based program, WA workplaces that have demonstrated commitment and leadership towards creating a healthy workplace can apply to become a gold, silver or bronze Recognised Healthy Workplace.

Recognised workplaces receive a certificate and digital icon, which they can display to attract new staff, as well as receive promotion via the official website and are provided with support and advice to achieve the highest level of recognition possible.

HWWA said that being part of the program could enhance business reputation, make businesses an employer of choice, assist to grow workplace culture and demonstrate a business’s commitment to health and wellbeing.

HWWA Manager Hayley O’Connell revealed that since the program launched more than 1600 businesses have contacted the organisation for support and more than 35 businesses have earned recognition.

“The support for workplace health in WA is terrific and many WA workplaces are implementing comprehensive workplace health and wellbeing plans which allow their staff to be physically active, quit smoking and improve their nutrition,” said O’Connell.

Some initiatives that businesses can adopt to create a healthy workplace include:

• Holding education sessions, including men's health, nutrition and healthy eating sessions.
• Offering prizes and incentives encouraging workers to adopt healthy lifestyles, including incentives to attend presentations and initiatives, vouchers for participation or gym memberships.
• Subsidising activities such as pilates, meditation and yoga classes.
• Providing communal sit-stand workstations, encouraging walking/standing meetings, promoting the HWWA Scared Sitless toolbox video or holding a 10,000-step pedometer challenge.
• Implementing a health and wellbeing plan.
• Having a smoke-free workplace policy, where smoking is not permitted in workplace vehicles and when employees are in company uniform, acting in an official capacity off-site or when carrying out official duties with members of the public.

Workplaces that have an existing workplace health and wellbeing program and would like to apply for recognition can visit www.healthierworkplacewa.com.au/get-recognised and submit an application online.

Image credit: Bridgette Lee, Health and Wellbeing Coordinator at the Department of Commerce in WA. Courtesy of DOC.