Table of Contents
Updated on January 12, 2024
Investing in Employee Wellness: A Smart Business Strategy
What would you do if you could save your business a lot of money later by spending a little extra now? Many companies have done just that by investing in the health of their staff through employee wellness programs. The main goal of these programs is to address the mental, physical, and social needs in the workplace in order to keep workers healthier for longer periods of time.
The High Cost of Sick Days in the Workplace
Sick days are expensive and cost employers in the United States approximately $576 billion dollars each year according to Forbes. Lost productivity due to absence or lowered performance at work makes up 39% of this total, or $227 billion dollars.
Effective Wellness Programs: A Solution to High Absenteeism
While offering proper time off reduces the chances of sick employees coming to work by 1.5 times, preventing illnesses before they infect anyone is an even better solution. Effective wellness programs may cost $100-400 per employee, but the lower absenteeism has a return on investment of $2.73 for each dollar spent.
Stopping Germs in Their Tracks: The Power of Hygiene
Approximately 80% of germs are spread by hand, which makes cross-contamination a leading cause of illnesses among staff. Dr. Charles Gerba, a microbiologist, performed a study on how quickly a virus could spread in an office. The study concluded that germs are stopped just as easily as they are spread with proper hygiene practices.
Innovative Solutions for a Healthier Work Environment
As good hygiene practices are necessary in keeping staff healthy, it is worth investing in products and services that make hand washing and surface cleaning fast and easy. Automatic, touch-free appliances like flush systems, faucets, soap dispensers, and air hand dryers will reduce recontamination.
Beyond Bacteria: Addressing Bloodborne Pathogens
Bacteria are not the only health threat in the workplace, as bloodborne pathogens can also be harmful. Hands-free sanitary disposal units in restrooms isolate potentially dangerous waste, reducing the risk of diseases such as Hepatitis and HIV.
Regular Maintenance: The Key to Sustained Wellness
Having all of these products maintained through regular service ensures that your facility is always equipped with essentials, keeping everything in top working order without overburdening in-house cleaning staff.
Hygiene: The Cornerstone of Your Workplace Wellness Program
If you are considering a wellness program for your business, remember that hygiene should always be included, as it is crucial for decreasing the spread of germs that lead to illnesses.
