Health departments across Northeast Oklahoma are actively engaging businesses to enroll in their transformative “Work@Health” program. This innovative training initiative aims to empower employers to cultivate healthier and more productive workplaces, ultimately benefiting both employees and the organizations they work for. Targeting companies within Craig, Delaware, Mayes, Nowata, Ottawa, Rogers, Wagoner, and Washington Counties, the program offers a robust set of resources and support to build or enhance existing wellness efforts focused on physical activity, nutrition, and mental health.
AAON’s Positive Experience with Work@Health
Tulsa-based manufacturing company AAON is among the early adopters of the “Work@Health” program. Although they had wellness initiatives in place prior to joining, AAON discovered that the program provided them with a clearer framework and focused strategy for their existing efforts. Eric Taylor, a senior product engineer at AAON, was instrumental in leading the company’s internal initiatives. He noted that the program inspired the establishment of a wellness committee and facilitated an array of lunch-and-learn events addressing crucial topics, including mental health, exercise, and healthy eating.
“You’re at work 8–10 hours a day,” Taylor shared. “This is a place where you can learn about health and develop into a healthier person. You don’t always have that opportunity at home. We have that opportunity here to educate and help people meet their goals.”
Measurable Improvements in Attendance and Morale
Since implementing the new wellness initiatives, AAON has experienced notable improvements in their workplace atmosphere. Taylor reported significant increases in employee attendance and morale. With a workforce of about 2,000, ensuring the health and wellness of their employees is critical to the company’s operational success. As Taylor aptly put it, “We can’t build our commercial HVAC equipment if we don’t have people who are healthy and ready to work.”
This narrative exemplifies the program’s potential impact on businesses, showcasing how a focused approach to employee health can lead to positive transformations in workplace culture and productivity.
Joining the Work@Health Program
The Oklahoma State Department of Health is currently enrolling businesses across Craig, Delaware, Mayes, Nowata, Ottawa, Rogers, Wagoner, and Washington Counties in this progressive program. Training sessions for interested organizations occur on June 26-27 in Claremore, providing a valuable opportunity for employers to learn how to effectively enhance their worksite health programs.
Employers who wish to take part should meet a few criteria: they must be headquartered in the U.S., provide health insurance, and employ a minimum of 20 individuals. For those interested in leveraging this opportunity to bolster their workplace wellness initiatives, signing up is straightforward and highly encouraged.
Understanding the Benefits of Workplace Wellness Programs
Engaging in wellness programs like Work@Health can yield far-reaching benefits not only for the employees but also for the businesses themselves. Enhanced employee wellness has been linked to reduced healthcare costs, lower absenteeism rates, and increased productivity – the trifecta of advantages that most companies aim for.
When employees feel supported in their journey toward better health, their overall job satisfaction tends to increase. This can result in a more dedicated workforce, less turnover, and a positive company image, which is particularly critical for attracting top talent in today’s competitive job market.
Strategies for Successful Implementation
For businesses considering joining the Work@Health program, it’s vital to approach the implementation of wellness initiatives thoughtfully. Here are some strategies that can help ensure success:
Assess Current Wellness Practices: Before implementing new strategies, evaluate existing wellness programs to identify strengths and areas for improvement. Understanding what already works within your organization will provide a solid foundation for new initiatives.
Involve Employees: Engaging employees in the planning process helps ensure that the wellness initiatives cater specifically to their needs and preferences. Surveys and focus groups can provide valuable insights into what resources employees would find beneficial.
Set Clear Goals: Utilizing the framework provided by the Work@Health program, set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) for your wellness initiatives. This will guide your efforts and help with tracking progress.
Encourage Participation: Create a supportive environment that encourages employees to actively participate in wellness programs. Incentives, competitions, and communication of successes within the program can enhance engagement.
Provide Ongoing Education: Wellness is a continuous journey. Regularly offering educational opportunities, such as workshops or lunch-and-learn sessions, can provide employees with valuable information and tools to foster healthier habits.
- Measure Outcomes: Finally, continuously monitor and evaluate the outcomes of your wellness initiatives. Analyzing data on employee engagement, productivity levels, and overall employee health can provide insights into the effectiveness of your programs and highlight areas for growth.
Conclusion
The Work@Health program in Northeast Oklahoma stands as a testament to the importance of prioritizing employee wellness in the workplace. By engaging businesses and providing them with the tools needed to create healthier environments, this initiative not only fosters improved health outcomes for employees but also enhances overall productivity and morale. Companies like AAON demonstrate the tangible benefits that can arise from such programs, showcasing the potential for positive change when businesses invest in their workforce’s well-being.
As more employers consider joining the Work@Health program, it’s clear that focusing on health and wellness is a win-win situation for everyone involved, paving the way for a healthier, more productive workforce in Oklahoma and beyond. For those interested in joining this transformative initiative, be sure to take the first steps toward a healthier workplace by signing up today.
