Approximately 215,000 Americans younger than 20 years old have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. A recent study, published in the journal Health Affairs has found that people with diabetes could expect $160,000 less in earnings over the course of their lifetimes compared with those without the disease.
|
A study conducted by the Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana has shown that exericse need not be extremely aggressive - even moderate levels of physicial exercise can significantly lower the blood pressure numbers of obese women.
|
Recent studies have identified that nurses who work shift work hours are at a higher risk for obesity and metabolic disorders.
|
Need a running partner who won't back out on you at the last minute, or when it's a bit "too hot" or "too cold" for a workout? The best exercise partners may be those with an extra two legs and a great attitude - your dog!
|
Research conducted by the Center for Women and Work at Rutgers, at the State University of New Jersey, has revealed that paid family leave following the birth of a child not only results in a greater labor force attachment and increased wages for women; but also a reduction in spending by businesses in the form of employee replacement costs, and by governments in the form of public assistance.
|
A study of 450 participants with chronic pain has researchers suggesting that exercise and weekly talk therapy check-ins by phone could be an effective addition to medication for chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia.
|
A great list of tips and answers to frequently asked questions about repetitive stress injuries. A must read!
|
The Institute of WorkComp Professionals Executive Director, Preston Diamond, discusses the issues surrounding workers' compensation and the aging workforce.
|
Long hours of sitting at a desk are not only bad for your physical health, but studies have found it's also hard on one's mental health.
|
Researchers conducted two experiments with workers from small, medium and large French companies to determine whether a boss' management style affected the company's bottom line.
|
Brynjar Foss, a human biologist from the University of Stavanger, Norway recently published an article in Medical Hypotheses, "Stress in Obesity: Cause or Consequence?" In the article, Foss states that stress, in addition to poor diet and lack of exercise, is one of the major contributing factors to weight gain.
|
A joint study by Canada's Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) and the Centre for Research on Employment and Workplace Health found that workers who had experienced a moderate depressive episode and received treatment were 2.5 times more likely to be highly productive compared with those who had no treatment.
|
Seven in ten workers say that the way a company treats sick employees has an impact on their feelings towards the company. Researcher and professor Cary Cooper states, "Employees want to feel confident that that their employers have their best interests at heart. Businesses should be seeking to embed wellbeing and absence management in their culture, regardless of their size, ambitions or industry."
|
A Canadian study confirms that treatment for depression greatly improves work productivity. People who had experienced a moderate depressive episode and received treatment were 2.5 times more likely to be highly productive in their work compared with those who had no treatment.
|
Americans are looking for ways to get healthy and fit, while companies are looking for ways to drive down healthcare costs. To achieve both of these goals, American Fitness offers 5 New Year’s resolutions that companies should make to achieve better employee health.
|
With budget cuts, unemployment and financial crisis all around, 2011 saw an increase of stress incidents in the workplace. But there's hope in the days ahead - read more to help your workplace elminate stress and thrive in 2012!
|
With neck pain being a "mechanical problem" some doctors are recommending "mechanical" treatments such as chiropractors or exercise before the chemical treatments of medicine.
|
An upcoming case to the Court of Appeals is expected to bring new vision to return to work cases in the State of New York.
|
A recent study cites the Campbell Soup Company as a great example of a diverse organization. Evidence from the study showed that a more inclusive workplace culture helped with recruiting and retaining quality employees, which in turn, helped companies bottom line.
|
After crunching the World Bank’s world development indicators and survey data from the 2010 Gallup World Poll, the London-based non-profit firm, Legatum Institute, concluded that the United States comes in first for health.
|
A UK firm specializing in law in the workplace suggests companies should block Facebook to all staff in an attempt to defuse a legal minefield.
|
According to a Labaton Sucharow Survey, 34% of Americans are aware of wrongdoings in the workplace, and 78% of Americans say they would report any misconduct.
|
Research conducted at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine asserts that expensive MRI imaging tests do not necessarily provide any clinical value for the patients who receive them prior to steriod injections for lower back pain.
|
More than 60% of Oakland County's 3,280 employees have participated in a voluntary wellness program which includes health screenings, risk assessments, discounted exercise and Weight Watchers classes. In the last four years, the number of those employees who have been deemed at high risk for health problems and referred to their primary physicians for follow-up care has dropped 11% in 4 years.
|
The gap between women's pay and that of their male counterparts has widened, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Female CEO salaries were equal to about 72% of those paid to men in 2010, down from 74% in 2005.
|
Turns out, holiday parties -even those with a paid meal and or an open bar - are not a very desirable perk, with only 4% of employees surveyed wanting one. The survey conducted by Harris Interactive on behalf of Glassdoor found that with worries surrounding the state of the economy, employees are hoping for a holiday bonus or a raise this time of year.
|
A recent study published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology claims that short cycle sprints three times a week could be enough to prevent and possibly even treat type 2 diabetes.
|
Stress caused by information overload is increasing in our modern day "multi-screen, multi-tasking" culture. Email overload is a contributory factor to work related stress - which causes an average term of absence from work of 27 days per year.
|
Jacqueline Power, Assistant Professor of Management at the University of Windsor's Odette School of Business, has spent years researching bullies in the workplace. Ms. Power states that while bullying can lead to higher sickness absenses, lower employee engagement, and higher turnover, management often times won't hear from employees about the bullying.
|
A study out of the United Kingdom claims that unhealthy lifestyle choices may be linked to causing half of all cancers.
|
A research fellow at UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center, Eve Ekman is "building a case that caregivers’ emotional exhaustion in the field of health and human services, and in other professions, is actually compounded by the distancing and dehumanizing behavior that they can employ to shield themselves from being overwhelmed."
|
New research from the Principal Financial Well-Being Index (SM) shows that the economy is the greatest source of stress for Americans, followed by their own personal finances, then their job and personal health.
|
Researchers have found that employees of workplaces utilizing Results Only Work Environments (ROWE) show much better health and wellness.
|
Two law professors at the University of Minnesota School of Law have identified that a loophole in the federal health care overhaul could allow employers to "essentially structure their plans to be attractive to low-risk, healthy employees and not attractive to people who are going to have significant health needs."
|
Compared to people without depression, those with a mood disorder could be two times as likely to suffer a heart attack.
|
"Washington's Department of Labor & Industries is taking the first step in creating a statewide network of providers to treat people with work-related injuries and illnesses by seeking public comments on draft standards for health-care providers who treat injured workers. The new standards will apply to providers who treat injured workers covered by the state workers' compensation program as well as those covered by self-insured employers."
|
Helpful reference for employers looking to create a supportive environment for employees to quit smoking and get healthy.
|
In addition to the unemployment rate at its lowest in two years, a separate survey of employers affirms more good news - companies added 120,000 jobs in November after adding 100,000 in October.
|
American workers, many who can't afford to take a vacation, leave vacation time unused.
|
Injured workers facing greater challenges in returning to work could lead to longer durations of disability.
|
A study which set out to find ways of helping workers in the first 12 weeks after a work-related injury resulted in findings that support best practices return to work programs.
|
Help your workplace employees beat the stress of the holidays!
|
Recent research links one of the six most common air pollutants in the United States, sulfur dioxide, to an increased risk for the painful joint disease known as rheumatoid arthritis.
|
A clinical trial's findings point to increasing your Vitamin B intake to significantly reduce work-related stress.
|
Many employees fear staying home sick from work at a time when job security is low.
|
Phil Bates, senior policy and technical adviser at the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health states that "there are clear benefits economically in training staff thoroughly using a variety of different platforms such as e-learning and that companies who invest in health and safety training are more likely to run smoother without posing a risk to themselves and their employees."
|
A team of scientists from the U.S, Canada, Germany and Argentina found that individuals exposed to trichloroethylene (TCE) were six-times more likely to develop Parkinson's.
|
Many employers offer financial incentives for their employees to strive for their most healthy lifestyles. Other employers take the approach of charging employees who smoke, are obese, or have high cholesterol a surcharge on their health insurance premiums.
|
Compiled data from 17 studies, totaling more than 200,000 participants, looked at the question of whether people who had been diagnosed with depression at some point were more likely to suffer a stroke than people who did not have depression symptoms.
|
Lead researcher Christine Friedenreich, of the Alberta Health Services Cancer Care in Canada, published her research findings of cancer and physical activity in the journal Cancer Prevention Research. The research confirmed that taking brisk daily walks helps to reduce several key biological indicators of cancer risk, including sex hormone levels, insulin resistance, inflammation and body fatness.
|
According to a news release by Great Place to Work Institute, a global research, training and consulting firm, Microsoft is the best place in the entire world to work.
|
Republicans seek to make Michigan more employer friendly; but it may mean that injured workers are forced to take lower-paying jobs before they are fully healed.
|
Professors from the University of Albany and George Mason University as well as a representative from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) collaborated on research findings which suggested that perceptions of unfairness at work were associated with indicators of physical and mental health. The study was published last month in the Journal of Applied Psychology.
|
Montana has more injured workers than almost every other state. In response to these statistics, the state's largest provider of workers' compensation insurance, Montana State Fund, has created a statewide campaign to encourage employers to develop Return to Work programs.
|
Trading the TV and the couch for a class at the gym or walk outside may be the best way to combat depression!
|
A top design and consultancy firm in Ontario emphasizes the importance of supporting four key factors when designing any new clients' space: Collaboration, Flexibility to accommodate various patterns of work, Space Optimization, and Wellness.
|
Nearly 70 percent of U.S. adults who smoke say they want to quit. While more than half have tried in the past year, only about six percent have succeeded.
|
A recent survey, which is conducted annually by the Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses, estimates Minnesota’s workplace injury and illness rate to be near an all-time low.
|
According to a ComPsych survey, two-thirds of workers report high stress levels, and 29 % are coming to work too stressed to be effective on five or more days per year.
|
Unlike many of those looking for a job in a tough market, the challenge for an occupational therapist job seeker isn’t finding an open position; rather it’s choosing between the multitude of options out there.
|
How can employers best address drug and alcohol dependency issues in the workplace?
|
Erik Hansson from the Faculty of Medicine at Lund University led research on the potential health affects of commuters; such as experiencing more everyday stress, poorer sleep quality, and exhaustion.
|
New research from Gallop has revealed that 71% of American workers are either 'not engaged' or 'actively disengaged' at work.
|
A survey conducted by The International Conflict Management Forum found a sizeable consensus (87%) was reached among respondents from organizations of all sectors and sizes that communication is "the most relevant factor" in influencing levels of employee stress.
|
The American Heart Association is offering an online tool to offer companies ideas on how to implement a worksite wellness program or make improvements to an existing one.
|
In a struggling economy, many employers are not as open to hiring people with disabilities; having the misconception that disability means only "limitations." U.S. Assistant Secretary of Labor, Kathleen Martinez urges organizations to look past those inaccurate assumptions of disabled workers in hiring and discover all the strengths that a disabled worker can bring to an organization.
|
OSHA will now require a module of training to be offered on the four types of hazards leading to construction worker accidents and deaths.
|
Could yoga be the best treatment for lower back pain?
|
Employees' health issues continue to be a dominant concern among the 677 Canadian employers surveyed for the 2011 Buffett National Wellness Survey.
|
The number of recordable injuries and illnesses among private industry employers has dropped significantly each year since 2002.
|
By fall 2012, four in five companies expect to offer some type of financial reward for wellness or health management participation.
|
Professor of policy analysis at Cornell University, Richard Burkhauser, stresses that there is "a fundamental flaw in the system that leads us to increasingly use SSDI as a long-term unemployment program for people who could be in the work force if they had the appropriate accommodations and rehabilitation."
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By the year 2020, the WHO has projected that depression will be the second leading cause of disability in the world. Today, depression is already ranked fourth. Read more on the WHO's 2011 theme for addressing mental health issues - "The Great Push: Investing in Mental Health”.
|
Being aware of bullying and taking part in preventing bullying helps promote health in all persons involved. Victims of bullying have been shown to frequently experience anxiety and depression, which frequently follows them for years. Those instigating the bullying also frequently exhibit health-related issues such as alcohol and substance abuse.
|
Workers and patrons in Michigan restaurants are enjoying an air quality improvement of 93% since their "Smoke-Free Workplace Law" took effect May 1, 2010.
|
A recent study revealed that organizations small and large can grow bigger profits through investing resources in training and supporting leadership development in employees.
|
While still a long way to go, recent statistics on obesity in the U.S. have shown a small percentage of hope that we are moving toward nationally healthier waistlines.
|
Researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health have published medical support for vigorous exercise in the American College of Sports Medicine.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Employers have implemented creative plans to help employees get healthy. Ranging from on-site medical visits, access to gyms, chronic-care plans, smoking-cessation programs to even discounts for those who buy a banana rather than a cookie.
|
While businesses are pleased with the changes in Illinois' new workers' compensation reform law, many fear that injured workers will suffer.
|
In surveying employees seeking to improve wellness, the Mayo Clinic additionally assesses the employee's level of stress. Further study of the participants found that those with higher stress had less confidence in their abilities to improve their health.
|
A proposal by President Obama seeks to protect unemployed applicants from being turned down for jobs simply because they are unemployed.
|
Smoking cessation programs and smoke-free workplaces have had a positive effect on the numbers of smokers in the United States. However, almost 20% of American workers still smoke; many of these being low-income, without a high school education and without health insurance.
|
A recent study by Harvard Medical School and the University of Michigan have determined that insomnia is costing U.S. businesses $63 billion in lost productivity annually.
|
A recent study published in the ACOEM's Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that allowing employees to take time from the work day to participate in employee exercise programs actually increases productivity, even with the loss of work hours to exercise.
|
At a recent "Business Health" summit of 100 business leaders, combating the obesity epidemic in America was a high priority conversation.
|
A 2011 MetLife study found that employees facing legal issues could lose an average of 3 hours of productivity at work each week.
|
According to the 2011 Global Mindset Index report, at least 23% of the surveyed global workforce is depressed.
|
What's the key to Google's consistently productive workforce, as well as their continuing high rank on the U.S. Fortune '100 Best Companies to Work For' list?
|
Are fit and healthy employees more productive than those employees who are not in as good of health and fitness? Is health in the workplace an economic issue? Read on!
|
Researchers at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) have identified a link between managerial work and brain development; potentially due to continuous problem-solving and increased need for emotional intelligence.
|
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average cost per hour worked for defined benefit plans in was 1.6% of total compensation with the average cost for defined contribution plans falling at 2% of total compensation.
|
Remember the joys of elementary school recess? KEEN, a major manufacturer of outdoor footwear and gear is implementing 10 minutes of recess into their work days to improve employee health and well-being.
|
Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton gave the keynote presentation last Friday at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation's Women and the Economy Summit in San Francisco.
|
Breast cancer survivors make up the largest population of cancer survivors returning to work every year.
|
In 2010, 46.2 million people were found to be living in poverty, up from 43.6 million in 2009—the fourth consecutive annual increase in the number of people in poverty
|
The Arthritis Foundation has introduced a new public service ad campaign urging sufferers of arthritis to exercise, stating that "moving is the best medicine."
|
New research links the speed of one's eating to weight gain.
|
Occupational Health & Safety magazine announced the winners of its third annual contest, the 2011 New Product of the Year Award.
|
While most assume that it's working mothers who are the ones with their eyes on flexible working arrangements, this article discusses the reasons men also seek more flexible work.
|
The best thing you can do to help support employees with mental illness? Refrain from making any assumptions.
|
The European Academy of Occupational Health Psychology encourages employers to work with their staff to manage stress levels in order to maintain overall health.
|
Companies across the nation are finding creative ways to support employees get on track to better health. Here's one inspiring story...
|
New research backs up the clinical evidence that says work is generally good for health and wellbeing and is an essential part of recovery.
|
Could a dose of walking, biking or jumping rope help one's depression?
|
Progressive Medical, Inc. has recently released a medical white paper, “Strategies for Navigating the Grey Zone Medication Maze.” The white paper provides workers’ compensation payors insight on how to manage the increasing challenges associated with ensuring medications are appropriate for a claim.
|
No one will argue that education and raising awareness are both critical to the effort of making Return to Work an integral part of workplace injury management in the United States. In a recent committee meeting of the Disability Management and Return to Work Committee at the recent International Association of Industrial Accident Boards and Commissions (IAIABC) Annual Conference in Madison, Wisconsin, the issue of "whose job is it to improve the existence of RTW programs" was up for debate.
|
According to a leading Cardiff University health expert, issues in the workplace and psychological factors are the top two obstacles for employees returning to work following an injury or illness.
|
Thanks to technology, employees are able to work from almost anywhere with mobile devices. Check out iPass's seven recommendations for IT departments to support mobile working.
|
Eating lunch at your desk today? You might be surprised by what you read in this article...
|
A recent study showed that smokers are significantly more likely to report chronic pain than nonsmokers.
|
A new study indicates that construction workers suffer the highest rate of on-the-job traumatic brain injuries.
|
A study published recently by BMC Public Health found that workers in high-stress jobs visited general practitioners 26% more and specialists 27% more compared with those in low-stress jobs.
|
Research indicates all four generations present in today's workforce rank the following factors among their top 10 workplace priorities: work/life balance, interesting work, a good salary, benefits, flexible hours and supportive supervision.
|
Workers who choose not to participate in employee wellness programs or make unhealthy choices are being hit with higher health insurance premiums, deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses, while workers who do participate in wellness programs are being rewarded with incentives, such as gift cards and contributions to health reimbursement accounts.
|
The President will propose his two-fold plan for creating new jobs to help those long out of work, as well as reducing the deficit.
|
Employee morale is an important contributor to health and productivity in the workplace. Who better to help with tips on boosting morale than late-night talk show host and funny guy, Jimmy Fallon?
|
Research released last fall found that women who sat for more than six hours a day had a 37 percent increased risk of premature death, compared to 18 percent for men. Women and workplace wellness programs look to a range of ways to combat these statistics - from sitting on exercise balls to working at a treadmill desk.
|
Many workers get into the habit of skipping lunch to get work done. A recent report cautions that this pattern puts workers at risk for long-term health issues.
|
No surprise here...a research report by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention states that eating healthy meals, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol intake, and not smoking will help you live longer.
|
Education about disability law and how it relates to your employees with mental illness is critical to creating the fair and legal workplace you want.
|
In June, Illinois Governor Quinn signed House Bill 1698, a comprehensive overhaul of Illinois’ workers’ compensation system. The reforms are expected to save Illinois businesses between $500 and $750 million dollars, while continuing protections for injured workers.
|
Millions of shift-workers suffer from shift work disorder, yet this disabling disorder is frequently missed by clinicians.
|
Workplace drug and alcohol use costs U.S. businesses an estimated $100 billion each year, with smaller businesses especially vulnerable to employee drug use in the workplace.
|
With the average American spending approximately ten hours a day sitting, employers are finding creative ways to put sedentary lifestyles on the move.
|
HealthPartners recently completed a seven-week study of what access to the sit-to-stand desk units would mean to employee mood, health and work performance.
|
"Eight out of ten Americans will at some point have issues with their back," says professional ergonomics consultant, Marty Dagostino, who believes most of it boils down to how people sit.
|
Could your organization benefit from developing a strengths-based workplace initiative?
|
A U.S. Department of Health study showed that from 1996 to 2004 managing musculoskeletal disease, including lost wages, cost an average $850 billion annually, making it the largest workers’ compensation expense.
|
Could alternative treatments such as music therapy help improve depression?
|
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), more than 600,000 workers suffer from back disorders annually.
|
As policymakers turn attention back to policies to drive a near-term economic recovery, it's also crucial to target longer-term policies to spur the pace of U.S. innovation, boost earnings for American families, and raise our competitiveness in the global economy.
|
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have launched a "Healthier Worksite Initiative" to help employers support their employees to get fit and stay healthy. Now more employers are offering incentives to employees who take part in improving their health and wellness.
|
What are the distinguishing characteristics of acute and chronic lower back pain? Research reported in The Journal of Pain showed that pain intensity ratings, pain location and sensory and affective variables differ among individuals with acute and chronic low back pain.
|
Workplace diversity programs have become key to driving innovation among the world’s most prominent businesses, says a study from Forbes Insights.
|
While strides have been made for persons with disabilities, there are still enormous challenges to overcome with respect to jobs, benefits and housing.
|
How can you help a fellow co-worker if you are concerned they are experiencing violence in their home? This article takes a look at the potential for domestic violence to follow its victims to work, and gives tips on how a workplace can maintain a safe and supportive environment.
|
An upcoming session of the AIABC 97th Annual Convention, looks to address the human toll of narcotic addiction and one state’s successful program to confront the issue.
|
Last month, scientists with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention published a list of the most notable public-health achievements of the past decade.
|
Could creating a more positive workplace help you keep your best workers? A recent study by the U.S. consultant Key Group found that 18 percent of employees between the ages of 18 and 64 are planning change jobs this year. Why? Results show that they are in hopes of striking a better work-life balance.
|
As many colleges and universities have been forced to cope with tightened budgets, many have still been able to create a workplace culture that faculty, professional staff and administrators would identify as exceptional.
|
According to Robin Jones, the Director of the Great Lakes Regional Disability, ADA and Business Technical Assistance Center, people with disabilities are losing their jobs at faster rates than those without them and are having a harder time regaining employment.
|
According to new research from PwC, Irish employees have one of the lowest rates of workplace absenteeism in Western Europe, taking an average of just 6.4 days of unscheduled leave from their jobs each year.
|
Rehabilitation professionals in North Carolina will have to meet a new course requirement effective July 1, 2011.
|
Iowa Senator Tom Harkin chaired a hearing of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee last week which will focus on expanding employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Harkin stated that "Despite the progress, the harsh reality is that people just really still experience discrimination and one of the toughest challenges we still need to tackle is the persistently low employment rates among Americans with disabilities."
|
"An employee who senses their manager looks after them is likely to look after their manager and not take inappropriate sickness absence." Read on for an interview with Dr. Mary Wyatt on the benefits to management taking a pragmatic approach to sickness absences.
|
At least thirty workers' deaths were caused by heat illness in 2010, according to the U. S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
|
According to the Society for Human Resource Management's most recent benefits survey, 73 percent of organizations currently have an EAP in place, and 88 percent of companies that employ more than 500 employees provide EAP services.
|
At a rally and information fair held in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, advocates said more work must be done to ensure that people with disabilities can live independently in their communities instead of nursing or long-term care homes.
|
Not only the finances are strained for a business when an employee is on a long-term sickness absence. A study by Aviva UK Health is calling attention to the emotional strains on the remaining team members.
|
Oregon business leaders and the Oregon Health Authority have recently launched a new initiative called Wellness@Work, which aims to provide tools and simple ideas on improving the health of employees.
.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$10 million is available to certain organizations through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to establish and evaluate workplace programs that address physical activity, nutrition, and tobacco use in the workplace. Find out how to submit an application here:
|
The College of Health Sciences at the University of Louisiana at Monroe is looking to meet the state's needs for occupational therapists by adding an online master's degree program to their offerings.
|
Could you be the Biggest Loser in your workplace? Workplaces are looking for new ways to promote health and wellness, some even creating games to encourage friendly competition.
|
What factors contribute to the recurrence of a medical leave of absence from work? Researchers at the University of Toronto's Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) take a closer look.
|
A study led by UCLA researchers suggests that people may become more easily depressed following minor life stresses in part because they have experienced adversities earlier in life or prior depressive episodes.
|
A recent research study group chaired by Stanford University's Dean of Medicine found that at least one-third of Americans experience chronic pain every year. The study, which analyzed the research and reports of more than 2,000 patients and caregivers, reports that alternative options for addressing pain, such as physical therapy, stress reduction, and weight loss would be much more beneficial than prescribing pills.
|
|
|
|
|
|
The CEO Cancer Gold Standard™ calls for companies to evaluate their health benefits and corporate culture and take extensive, concrete actions in five key areas of health and wellness to fight cancer in the workplace.
|
A new program established in Washington's workers' compensation reform bill signed last Wednesday by Governor Chris Gregoire supports injured employees while reimbursing employers for keeping the employee in a light-duty job while they recover.
|
Based on a survey of 1,300 employers and other proprietary research, a study published in the McKinsey Quarterly found that 30% said they will "definitely" or "probably" stop offering employer-sponsored insurance in 2014.
|
In a study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, researchers describe the epidemiology of fatal TBI in the US workplace between 2003 and 2008. This study provides the first national profile of fatal TBIs occurring in the US workplace.
|
Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar and Representative Erik Paulsen are leading a bipartisan caucus which aims to bring the issue of worplace wellness forward nationally.
|
Some days there's no getting around it - you feel lousy, but missing work is not an option, right? Medical research has found that working while ill may have long term negative consequences for your health.
|
Authors of the new book, Booster Breaks: Improving Employee Health One Break at a Time, encourage an alternative to gathering around the coffee pot for the standard 15 minute work breaks.
|
By 2012, it is estimated that 33 percent of employers will likely have implemented incentive-based wellness programs for their employees.
|
A recent survey conducted by the insurance provider Aflac revealed that more than half of those surveyed were not prepared to pay for out-of-pocket expenses not covered by major medical insurance.
|
A recent survey conducted by CareerBuilder set out to answer questions about equal opportunity employment. Here's what they found:
|
Corporate leaders from businesses around the nation met in Minnesota last week to discuss what can be done in the fight against cancer.
|
Cameron Haste, chief operations officer of Bay Federal Credit Union and a HOPE Services board member, details several benefits to hiring individuals with disabilities.
|
A convergence of communication and technology is changing the way corporations define the workplace. This also means there are many more ways to optimize the way we work.
|
Employers are looking for alternatives methods of supporting health and wellbeing as fiscal budgets tighten.
|
Compassion fatigue, or secondary traumatic stress disorder, can affect workers in a range of fields that call for the worker to have a significant degree of compassion while supporting clients in highly emotional or traumatic situations.
|
Randy Jones from CompManagement stresses how developing a safety management program in a workplace not only prevents incidents and protects employees from injury, but also helps the company meet its financial bottom line.
|
The Ford Motor Company has renewed a contract with OSHA to continue their partnership in aiming to reduce the frequency and severity of worker injuries.
|
McMaster University researchers have conclusive evidence that bacteria in the gut does in fact influence brain chemistry and behavior.
|
What factors contribute to work disability resulting from low back pain disorders? A study in the May Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine takes a closer look.
|
Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Public Health are conducting a study which takes a closer look at the link between pesticides and Parkinson's disease.
|
Taking care of employees is a good thing for the finances as well as the employee's return to work.
|
Are you lost when navigating the maze of laws surrounding issues of disability and employment? Read more to find out about a free resource for HR Managers on FMLA, ADA and Workers' Compensation issues.
|
Mayor Emanuel is looking to enhance Chicago's RTW Program, which additionally saves the city $500,000 in its 2011 fiscal budget.
|
|
|
The Healthy Workplace focus section in this week's Portland Business Journal tells the success stories of employees who have lost 30-60 pounds in part because of benefits provided by their workplace programs.
|
Could depression be genetic? Recent research out of both Washington University and the U.K. have reported that approximately 40 percent of the risk of depression is contributed directly by genes, with the rest arising from external factors.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bullying can have severe consequences for an organization. It takes a toll on the business' most valuable asset, their people, and it also affects their bottom-line when it means higher absences, higher rates of attrition, and productivity loss as workers become anxious and less confident in the workplace.
|
A video series described in this article looks to further educate voters on a North Carolina bill being proposed which would drastically limit the rights of injured workers.
|
A provider of integrated medical cost management solutions, Healthcare Solutions, is looking to identify emerging issues that the company expects will impact the workers’ compensation market over the next decade.
|
Inadequate sleep can affect multiple aspects of brain functioning, such as the ability to concentrate or the ability to be creative. If you're sleep deprived, chances are, it's affecting your work performance.
|
Service animals are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act, which allows them to accompany their owner into any place of public accommodation, including any business. This article takes a closer look at some of the questions frequently asked about service animals.
|
As the workforce evolves, employers find creative new ways to meet the needs of young parents and keep valuable employees within their organizations.
|
Dr. Monika Engblom of Stockholm, Sweden, has sought to improve the understanding of sickness certification challenges experienced by primary care providers and occupational health providers in her recent thesis. Find a link to Dr. Englbom's thesis at the end of this article.
|
Based on what experts say is ‘the most rigorous workplace research ever conducted,’ the Gallup Workplace Awards honor organizations whose employee engagement results demonstrate they have the most productive and engaged work forces in the world.
|
Gaining the support of others while coping with a mental health illness can make all the difference. Read how Canadian Lt. Colonel Stéphane Grenier courageously implemented a peer support and mental health education program in the Canadian military after coming to terms with his own personal struggle with mental illness.
|
Currently 1 in 4 American adults live with a diagnosable, treatable mental health condition. It is the Mental Health America organization's goal to not only increase awarness of mental health conditions, but to educate that these individuals can go on to live healthy, productive lives.
|
The role of the medical provider in the workers' compensation process is extremely important to ensuring the patient receives a realistic prognosis and a suitable treatment plan in order to regain health and return to work. The subject of workers' compensation has long been fraught with ethical concerns, and this article takes a closer look at those concerns from the position of the provider.
|
The discovery of a critical and previously unknown pathway in the brain that is linked to our response to stress has been discovered by neuroscientists at the University of Leicester, UK, and will also be featured in the scientific journal Nature. The advance offers new hope for the treatment and even the prevention of stress-related psychiatric disorders.
|
According to a recent Gallup survey of American workers, workplace environments that fail to engage employees might be the cause of health risks as detrimental as the effects of unemployment.
|
California has become the first state to implement e-billing, a transition expected to speed up the payment process and save on paper expenses.
|
Take out for dinner, late night cable TV and long hours in a car don't make for the healthiest of lifestyles. Now the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine has published a recent study on the health risks associated with business travelers.
|
Depression affects a staggering number of people around the world. What are the contributing factors to the increase in those affected? What can we do to address this illness and help those struggling through?
|
Going green is good for the environment AND for the fiscal budgets! Here are three easy tips to green up your office.
|
Ever have the feeling you have "mental cobwebs"? Canadian CEO of Irving Oil, Mike Ashar, strongly believes physical exercise helps clear those cobwebs. To promote productivity in his company, he supports employees with incentives to help make it possible for them to make health a priority and get physically active.
|
The line between our personal and professional lives has become blurred as our culture widely embraces social networking. How should human resource professionals prepare to address the inevitable issues which will come as a result?
|
A decision from a Florida court has dismissed a lawsuit alleging that financial incentives to participate in a voluntary wellness program violate the Americans with Disabilities Act.
|
Final regulations to the Americans with Disabilities Amendments Act, or the ADAA, were recently released by The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
|
Robin Rudner, RD, LDN, from the University of Maryland Medical Center makes some sensible suggestions on how to incorporate health and fitness goals into your work day.
|
Sandra Kopit Cohen, M.D. gives a supportive review of the book: Evaluating Mental Health Disability in the Workplace: Model, Process, and Analysis, written by occupational psychiatrist Liza H. Gold, and legal scholar Daniel W. Shuman. Gold and Shuman's book offers perspectives on work and mental health for general psychiatrists and disability specialists.
|
Outdoor company KEEN plans to implement a "Recess Revolution" campaign to cities across America by summer 2011; encouraging people to get out every day for a 15 minute break of fresh air and sunshine. The summer’s recess activities include sidewalk chalk art exhibitions in Denver and installing adult-friendly tire swings throughout Minneapolis. (I'm giggling over the picture of guys in ties pushing eachother on the tire swings, aren't you?)
|
"What we have found is that the most important organization in the world is within you--the immune system. Salaries, motivation are not enough. When employees do not find meaning in their work, when they are given responsibility without authority, these make them sick. And when you're helpless, your immune system shuts down."
|
We've all heard someone say "I need a mental health day" after a particularly stressful time at work. Does stress at work make us sick, or does taking a sick day help us cope to be able to handle the stress more productively when we return? A recent study by Swedish researchers aimed to answer these questions...read on!
|
It's clear that shift workers often have trouble with getting adequate sleep. Is it possible that this lack of sleep can lead to other major health risks?
|
Whether it's adjusting your screen or getting a desk capable of sit-and-stand, here's a great guide to a safe workstation!
|
Employers who are now hiring or have already hired a person with a disability should check with or otherwise advise their accountant or tax preparer about these available tax incentives to see if they qualify.
|
Canadian employers are taking note of increasing mental health issues and find that investing in better workplace health is good for business.
|
Feeling overwhelmed or stressed out? Lauren Miller has 3 Tips to help you identify what may be causing your stress and how you can get some relief.
|
With many options for employers to help employees achieve better health, the results may be lower blood pressures for the employees and lower health-care costs for the employer.
|
President-elect of the Oklahoma State Medical Association, George Caldwell, M.D., voices his concerns that Oklahoma bill SB 878 which aims to reform the state's workers' compensation system.
|
|
How are stress and immunity linked? Scientists at The Ohio State University have discovered that gut microorganisms may play a role in innate immunological stress responses.
|
The National Mental Health Association estimates that more than one billion sick days can be attributed to mental health disorders caused by work stress every year. That’s $193 billion a year in lost earnings. Read more about what may contribute to stress in your workplace
|
This article from Occupational Health & Safety Online takes a historical look at workers' compensation laws in the United States.
|
A study published in the March Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine has suggested that simple changes in the workplace, like putting healthier options in the vending machines, could help employees with weight loss.
|
Journalist Kari Lydersen's article takes a closer look at the global economic crisis and worker protests from Wisconsin to Egypt.
|
Wyoming Neuroscience and Spine Institute has launched a 10-month trial looking to identify new ways to treat workers with back pain.
|
A research brief released by The George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services this week evaluates the consequences of the proposed reductions in federal health center funding on access to health care for low-income workers.
|
A bill going before the Missouri House aims to give employees peace of mind and to restore integrity of the workers' compensation system.
|
A study has found that the life expectancy of people suffering from a severe mental illness can be reduced by up to 25 percent, Medical News Today reports. The study of 782 people with mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder found that nearly two-thirds were overweight or obese, while a disproportionate number suffered from diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and raised cholesterol. Researchers noted that the main cause of death of severely mentally ill people was not suicide - as commonly mispercieved by health practitioners - but cardiovascular disease. Lead author Professor Richard Gray said, "Mental health nurses do a tough job and are compassionate and highly committed. But they do not tend to be skilled at managing the physical health of their patients and they often don't lead entirely healthy lifestyles themselves."
|
Businesses and health care providers in Green Bay, Wisconsin are working together to develop and implement employee wellness programs.
|
Results from a study conducted by researchers at Emory University and the University of Vermont have identified a biological marker for PTSD in women. Read more about how this discovery may enhance diagnostic tools and potential treatments for anxiety disorders.
|
Medical News Today details how a drug originally designed as an anti-tumor agent is now enhancing the ability of flu vaccines to combat viruses.
|
This last week, the many contributions women have made to the changing culture of the workplace were celebrated for International Women's Day.
Are women still experiencing glass ceilings as they look to advance their career?
|
Anti-bullying experts Dr. Gary Namie, PhD, and his wife and colleague, Dr. Ruth Namie, PhD, believe that workplace bullying can result in a significant harm to mental and physical health.
|
Progress has been made to ensure the safety and protection of disabled persons during and after a natural disaster.
|
According to labor statistics, there are high numbers of people who are challenged with drug use, heavy or binge drinking or other substance abuse problems. These issues inevitably become present in the person's workplace as well. What can you do to help combat these issues?
|
The rise of workers in the oil and gas, construction and heavy industry fields in Western Canada have created a need for more health and safety workers in this area as well.
|
Don't underestimate the power of being punctual to work everyday; or simply being able to make eye contact while interviewing for a promotion!
|
A high number of workers employed by small businesses are currently uninsured, leaving them vulnerable to illness — or to the steep costs of attaining health insurance coverage on their own.
|
How do those working rotating shift work positions cope with adjustments to their sleeping schedules? Read more for tips on how to make sleep a priority.
|
After examining their data, this county in Minnesota recognized the need for broader discussions to address emotional health and prevent mental health-related disability. Learn more how they responded and developed a training program for managers to identify "troubled" employees and steer them to behavioral health case managers for support.
|
Do you ever imagine you are biking through the park instead of sitting at your desk? A recent study gave participants a modified mini exercise bike that they could pedal while sitting at their desk. Read more for the study's results!
|
|
The governor's attempts to repeal collective bargaining rights for Wisconsin state employees will affect the wage and benefits of Wisconsin's blue-collar workers, who earn substantially less than their private-sector counterparts.
|
A 30-year clinical field study resulted in the Cycle of Excellence, a process managers use to bring out the best in their employees. These comprehensive 5 Steps will well prepare managers for encouraging peak performance from their teams.
|
Researchers from the University of Alberta stress the impact of perceptions on recovery time.
|
According to this article's research, the number of workers who experience mental health related illness is 1 in 4 every year. How is return to work coordination different for those workers returning after mental health issues?
|
While visiting Bogota, Columbia, workplace diversity consultant and author Simma Lieberman encountered a real-life experience of excellent customer service and business success due to an inclusive workplace and empowered employees.
|
This article by former U.S. Associate Attorney General and Chief Justice of the Arkansas Supreme Court Webb Hubbell, discusses how RTW guidelines must be integrated with evidence-based medical treatment guidelines (EBM) in order to have effective return-to-work practices in place.
|
An interview with President Obama by PBS News Hour on the topic of supporting business in the United States.
|
Should workers' compensation insurance cover mental stress claims of emergency workers?
|
Healthcare costs typically represent a businesses' second or third largest expense. Read more for insight on how businesses can promote wellness in the workplace and decrease healthcare costs.
|
The American Psychological Association’s 2010 Stress in America Survey showed 76% of respondents say that money causes them stress, which also concludes that money, work and the economy “remain the most oft-cited sources of stress for Americans." Read more for ideas about how businesses can help implement financial wellness coaching, much like wellness coaching, to help alleviate some of the stress of their employees before the stress starts to affect employees health and wellness at work.
|
One idea proposed to Mayor Bloomberg by Senator Tom Harkin for New York City's "Taxi of Tomorrow" competition is to consider a wheelchair accessible taxi as part of the city's new design choice for their taxi fleet. Read Senator Harkin's letter to Mayor Bloomberg here.
|
What can and can NOT be asked of a candidate in an interview? This online HR Resource for Screening, Selecting and Legal Compliance gives you a guideline of ADA approved interview questions.
|
This news out of Winnipeg, Canada addresses the debate over scheduled shift work and its effects on health and safety for firefighters.
|
Read this Smart Business magazine interview by Matt McClellan with Nancy Pokorny, a managing consultant specializing in wellness at Findley Davies, Inc. who says implenting wellness in the workplace is all about "building a culture of health.”
|
Claims of disability discrimination in the workplace increased 17% in 2010, according to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
|
Regina E. Dolsen, RN, BSN, MA, and Vice President of Operations at Blue Chip Surgical Center Partners, outlines seven key steps to maintaining OSHA compliance for ambulatory surgery centers.
|
One month into the new year 2011, now is an ideal time for companies to evaluate their work environment and make adjustments aimed at minimizing and eliminating risk factors that can lead to pain and injury down the road. Fortunately, many of these modifications can be made easily and affordably.
Read more: http://www.miamiherald.com/2011/01/24/2030570/how-businesses-can-minimize-workplace.html#ixzz1Cj1ZdxLf
|
Professors from the John Molson School of Business at Concordia University in Montreal are researching leadership behavior and workplace autonomy around the world. The results? Perhaps having a bit more personal freedom while doing one's work equals more productivity.
|
Midland College of Texas and Texas Mutual Insurance Company have awarded three college campuses in Texas with $100,000 grants for funding risk management and safety classes. Courses in 2011 will include first aid, drug and alcohol awareness, lock out/tag out standards and occupational health, safety administration, driver safety, fall protection and ladder safety.
|
The Social Security Administration has elected Lockheed Martin to assist in the overhaul of their system for processing disability claims. According to Lockheed, the new Disability Case Processing System (DCPS), will help the agency process disability claims faster and with higher consistency than it currently does.
|
In reviewing Ernst & Young's latest survey on globalization, it's clear that diversity of team members and their experience is of great importance to the respondents. In assessing what makes a successful global leader, this CNN Money article offers 4 tactics to consider in our ever evolving global economy.
|
Proposed anti-workplace bullying legislation in the State of New York noted that "between sixteen and twenty-one percent of employees directly experience health endangering workplace bullying, abuse and harassment" and that "such behavior is four times more prevalent than sexual harassment." With more recognition being given to workplace bullying, it is only a matter of time before state and federal laws are adapted.
|
Selena Rezvani, author of the new book, The Next Generation of Women Leaders: What You Need to Lead but Won't Learn in Business School and former employee of the Great Place to Work Institute reveals the commonly held qualities of the companies on the Fortune 100 'Best Companies to Work For' list.
|
In response to a recent report by the surgeon general, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is calling on employers to take further steps to protect their workers. According to the report, tobacco remains the leading cause of preventable death in the United States and is responsible for 443,000 deaths each year.
|
A national operator of outpatient physical therapy clinics, U.S. Physical Therapy, Inc., announced that it has successfully launched an integrated solution for the management and prevention of injuries in the workplace called Fit2WRK. A workers compensation and disability initiative, Fit2WRK aims to reduce loss time and employer cost from injury as well as expedite the employee return to work process.
|
This article addresses options for managing psychological injury claims, with the intent of reducing risk to both employees and employers. Health and financial risks are often created by distrust, adversarial negotiations and the effective isolation of employees during the process of a claim. With psychological injuries, injury management personnel need to respond in a timely and proactive manner, with the intention of the most expedient and safe return to work for the employee.
|
Offering new employees a premade handbook or packet on workplace injuries upfront is another way to reduce claims costs and communicate a culture of safety.
|
Derek Abma of the Vancouver Sun takes a closer look at professions requiring employees to display a front of neutrality in their work - doctors and health care professionals being top of the list - and how these professionals may suffer fatigue from emotion suppression.
|
In this article from Veterans Today Journal, Michael Leon addresses the issue of flexibility as an asset in today's workplace. Leon also provides insight into how mangement can promote flexibility as a strategic business tool rather than a perk.
|
In addition to helping injured workers, occupational medicine is important for testing employees' health and wellness before they are officially hired for a job.
|
The Occupational Safety and Health Act has saved many thousands of lives, but OSHA has become hopelessly overmatched in attempting to address 21st century workplace safety concerns with 20th century tools. With nearly 5,000 American dying every year due to workplace health and safety issues, OSHA needs our national attention.
|
A proposal by Washington state Governor Chris Gregoire to revamp the state's workers' compensation system would generate about $720 million in a span of four years and help spur economic growth in the state by freeing up more funds for businesses in their expansion plans.
|
Jon Gordon, author of Soup: A Recipe to Nourish Your Team and Culture, said, “While ‘work’ is a convenient scapegoat for exhaustion at the end of the day, it is often the negativity of the people you work with — their constant complaining, and the pessimistic culture that is the norm in a lot of workplaces.” Jon provides twelve tips to help your workplace function more optimistically.
|
This article from the National Center for Policy Analysis sheds light on a proposal by Professors David Autor of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Mark Duggan of the University of Maryland to reform Social Security Disability Insurance.
|
With the nation’s legislative landscape dominated by healthcare reform and relatively stable Workers’ Compensation rates in 2010, Workers’ Comp fell off the radar screen. Yet, a more careful review points to challenging times in the years ahead.
|
This article from Nurse Case Manager, Kelly Haile, encourages employers to take a proactive approach in making sure the medical care workers receive is top-notch.
|
While progress has been made in education, transportation and building access, people with disabilities still face obstacles in the corporate world, when fear and lack of cultural comfort cause them to question hiring a person with a disability. Read this article to learn more about an innovative Chicago based technology group, IT Knowledge Abilities Network, that strives to improve employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
|
In your mind, what does an engaged workforce look like? What percentage of your workforce do you think needs to be engaged? Why is an engaged workforce a competitive advantage? Karin Lindner, author of "How Can We Make Manufacturing Sexy," provides some insight into the value of motivating your employees.
|
Having connection to social media networks and "going green" are just two of the continuing trends we see for businesses in 2011.
|
About 55.5% of all job seekers over 55 have been unemployed for 27 weeks or longer, the AARP says. Could these long-term unemployments have other effects on already stressed social systems?
|
Wouldn't having a bit more carrot help you in sticking to your new year's resolutions to get healthier? Read more from the "Your Money" section of the New York Times on how working towards better health may soon come with additional reward.
|
The incidence of obesity is growing globally. In the United States, the incidence of obesity is the highest of all reporting countries and the trend continues unabated. Clearly, the implications of these trends on workers compensation is disburbing.
|
How is it that America spends more money on health care than any other industrialized nation, and yet we are no where close to being the healthiest nation? With preventable illness making up about 70% of the burden of illness and associated costs, a solid case is made for promoting wellness in the workplace.
|
The State of New York Attorney General's office has stated that four insurance groups have agreed to pay the state nearly $120 million because their companies collected too much in surcharges related to workers compensation.
|
Professor of management at Rutgers University, Chester Spell, and co-researchers Katerina Bezrukova of Santa Clara University and Jamie L. Perry, a doctoral candidate at Rutgers, took on this study to determine whether the composition of work groups could play a role in reducing psychological distress in the workplace.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Washington Post takes a closer look at the upcoming executive order from the White House to increase federal workplace diversity.
|
This piece from Talent Management Tech.com discusses the many ways organizations can get creative about implementing wellness programs for their employees.
|
Employees of the Bronx Psychiatric Center (BPC) in New York risk being assaulted at work due to inadequate staffing. This article highlights how members of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) are holding rallies to call attention to the high price for workplace violence.
|
The National Business Group on Health announced the launch of a three-year project, which is being conducted in collaboration with the National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®) to help employers address the growing healthcare challenge of cancer, This article details the series of comprehensive resources and tools the project aims to develop for large employers hoping to better assist employees with cancer.
|
Did you catch yourself reaching for the snooze button this morning? A recent study conducted by Phillips Consumer Lifestyle sheds light on American office workers' sleep habits and their potential affect on work performance.
|
This article discusses how HR managers and supervisors can take a proactive approach in making sure everyone has fun and stays safe at the company holiday party. With these tips in mind, you'll be able to save yourself and others from the embarrassment of having a little too much egg nog and regretting it on Monday!
|
A report conducted by Minnesota based UnitedHealth Group addresses the dangers of a diabetes epidemic to our nation's economy.
|
This article's tips should help you be well on your way to reducing costs on the job, while enhancing the safety of your employees.
|
Working long hours and experiencing high job strain also affects the body’s physiological response to stress. Now a study published in the European Heart Journal reports that working overtime is an independent risk factor for incident cardiovascular disease.
|
Sam Gold of the Injured Workers Television Network, urges a change for California's Workers' Compensation system.
|
Learn how fostering a culture of health in your workplace can translate into improved employee engagement and workplace performance.
|
According to results of a survey conducted by Florida State University researchers, a variety of negative employee outcomes can be associated with their supervisors’ aberrant behavior, including impaired work productivity and poorer heath.
|
According to this year’s Women’s Health Study, sponsored by the American National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, stress in the workplace is a primary hazard for heart disease. When heart health is at stake, learning how to manage workplace stressors is crucial. This article explores ways to prevent stress from becoming a risk to one's health.
|
Being injured on the job brings a great deal of pain beyond the physicial; including how to receive or pay for treatment and rehabilitation. This article takes a closer look at one state's workers' compensation laws and provides tips on how the employee can best navigate this sometimes painful process.
|
Healthcare costs affect the bottom line of every business, which is why providing employee wellness programs is more important than ever.
|
A short-term behavioral intervention developed in Canada and now being used in the U.S. can help get chronic pain sufferers back to work.
|
Legislation proposed in Washington last session to address issues with workers' compensation failed to make any progress. Now in the following news article, President of the Washington Association of Business, Don Brunell, makes a case for necessary reform to the state's workers' compensation systems to take priority in January.
|
The culture of a workplace can show symptoms of health or toxicity; this article addresses how organizations can aim to improve the well-being of their workplace.
|
Can we turn Americans into frugal health care consumers? Budget proposals from leaders of both parties have urged shrinking or eliminating tax breaks that make employer health insurance the leading source of coverage in the nation. The underlying idea is access to quality health care, while reducing costs. It also could raise several hundred billion dollars a year, depending how its done. One of the leaders of Obama's deficit commission, Alan Simpson said "you cannot get anything done in this game unless you deal with every single aspect of the federal budget, and the biggest thing to wrap our arms around is health care."
|
Thursday Dec. 9 at noon, Minnesota's Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP) invites business of 25 or more employees in the area to attend a workplace wellness program "Working Towards Wellness...is it Right for Your Business). Obesity (and the health conditions associated with it) is targeted as a burdening chronic disease. Positive influences go beyond the workplace when health promotion programs are implemented. Click here for more about the benefits to both employers and employees.
|
Technology leading to innovation. Such can be said for Sheq Development Institute (SDI) which operates a web-based scanning, monitoring and reporting system designed to support companies' outsourcing of occupational health and safety (OHS) and compensation for occupational injuries and diseases(COID). According to Dr Kelvin Kemm, nuclear physicist and CEO of Stratek Business Strategy Consultants, the beauty of this approach is rapid communication over a wide area - even country to country if need be.
Dr Ricky Montalbano, chair- person of SDI explained that SDI is continuing to develop new additions to the platform that already exists, and is supplying the service to a wide spread of clients.
|
The highest rated challenge to effective performance management, cited by nearly half of respondents in a confidential online survey (WorldatWork / Sibson 2010 Study of The State of Performance Management) collecting feedback from a sample of WorldatWork members, is that managers lack the courage to have difficult performance discussions with employees. The second and third greatest challenges are performance management is viewed as an "HR process" rather than a business-critical process and poor goal setting. Read on for an enlightened and revealing assessment of performance management.
|
Slogans aren't going to cut it. So how do you get a fit between your employees and the workplace culture you promote? A great place to begin is with the recent fourth edition of Reframing Organizations by Lee Bolman and Terence Deal. Reframing Organizations spells out the four different types of perspectives on organizations: structural, human, political and symbolic. The challenge is aligning personal goals with company goals, and showing examples which helps make it easy for everyone to join in.
|
Oh, my aching back. Workplace musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among the most significant occupational safety and health problems in the United States. The American Society of Safety Engineers' (ASSE) Ergonomics Branch has developed a set of tips including: chair selection, ergonomic keyboards, posture, eye fatigue and glare. Check it out!
|
Based on a 10 year survey and medical data on more than 17,000 women in the health profession, researchers at Harvard Medical School found that women who said their job requires them to work "very hard" or "very fast" but who have little say over their day-to-day tasks were 88 percent more likely than those in less-stressful jobs to have a heart attack. Much of the research to date on job stress and heart health has been done in men. But women are more likely than men to experience job strain, not to mention stress related to home and family demands, says Paul Landsbergis, Ph.D., an associate professor of environmental and occupational health sciences at SUNY Downstate Medical Center, in Brooklyn. “The results certainly imply that we need to do more to make jobs healthier,” Landsbergis says.
|
Research shows that overweight kids and teens tend to have lower self-esteem, underperform academically and, rate themselves less intelligent than their slimmer peers. Research further shows that the workplace can be just as precarious for overweight adults. When the pounds start to add up, it's not only your health you're putting in jeopardy, but also your overall well-being.
|
Out of sight shouldn't become out of mind when it comes to keeping remote workers injury free. Although employers can't dictate where you work within the home, they can certainly give suggestions and provide appropriate equipment. "The more structure the better," so says Niki Ingram, assistant director of Marshal, Dennehey, Warner, Coleman and Goggin's workers' compensation department. Suggest to employees that they keep an area that is separate for the business operations, as well as scheduled working hours. In that way, injuries that happen outside that time frame or in another location are less likely to be deemed work-related. "What's not going to be covered is if the worker does something that is not in furtherance of the employer's work," Ingram said.
|
Health insurance options: cost more? Cover less? Or both? Employers, faced with rising health costs are sharing the pain with their employees. They are seeking to halt rising costs by promoting good health with wellness programs, health coaches and financial incentives for workers who adopt health lifestyles. Explore how health reform, a healthy workforce, high deductibles, and creative cuts are being managed for some Arizonans.
|
In the 20 years since The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was enacted many things have changed, but the number of discrimination cases reported in 2009 is the highest it has ever been. The increase may be due to the increased numbers of disabled workers or it may reflect that disability is a more inclusive term than in the past. Previously, disabled workers had visible signs such as wheelchairs, canes or hearing aids, but now the ADA covers non-visible conditions such as epilepsy and diabetes. Reporting the problems of discrimination does the greatest good. Disabilities in the workplace still has leaps and bounds to grow, but there have been huge strides in the acceptance of disabled people within the workplace.
|
When dealing with the question of age in the workplace, the answer is seemingly, follow the money. Increased health care costs, disability claims, and potentially higher wages for longer term workers and being "behind the times" regarding technology, appear to be the initial considerations, in spite of older workers being cited as more dedicated, loyal, respectful, mature, etc. As the number of older workers faces a demographic shift employers should consider the following three things: balance, patience and empathy. Having a balance within the organization to get the best of both worlds, and tempering the workplace with patience and empathy may be the guideposts to adapt to the retirement age changes and the huge numbers of baby boomers that are going to be here for a long time to come.
|
The NZ Department of Labour has released a new tool to assist businesses to assess and improve their safety culture. A positive safety culture has been shown by research to reduce the frequency and severity of injuries, limit staff turnover and improve productivity. The Department’s Workplace Services Group Manager Maarten Quivooy said, “one of the best ways to improve a safety culture is to start measuring it. This tool gives businesses the guidance they need to understand what’s working well and where there is room for improvement.” The tool can be accessed at: http://osh.govt.nz/resources/tools/scs/
|
New research reported in The Journal of Pain has found that disability from chronic pain in adolescents can be exacerbated by high levels of anxiety, Medical News Today reports. Researchers hypothesised that for adolescents with high levels of anxiety, pain would not be the main cause of physical and social disability. Assessing 222 adolescents, results showed that for those people with high anxiety levels, pain severity was not related to functioning. Researchers outlined a reinforcing cycle of behaviours in adolescents with anxiety, causing avoidance of physical and social activities, further heightening anxiety.
|
A new study has found that employees who telecommute - i.e. have a flexible working arrangement which includes working from home - enjoy decreased stress and higher job satisfaction, Medical News Today reports. Researchers say teleworking allows people to avoid the distracting and stressful aspects of the workplace, such as "office politics, interruptions, constant meetings and information overload." The work-life balance was said by researchers to be greatly improved by telecommuting. "With lower stress and fewer distractions, employees can prevent work from seeping into their personal lives," said researcher Kathryn Fonner. The decrease in face-to-face interaction was found to only minimally increase feelings of alienation.
|
Home-based entrepreneur Tony Featherstone warns those who work from home (or those who want to) about setting and communicating boundaries early. Setting work/life boundaries with family, friends and other companies, and establishing a clear routine is the key to maintaining productivity, relationship health and tension-free life at home. Featherstone says that with planning and communication, it is possible to be more productive as well as having more time for yourself and others.
|
24-hour nurse on duty. Started abut 13 years ago, Paul Binsfeld, president of Company Nurse, has seen a remarkable savings of 15 to 20 percent and up to 40 percent in workers' comp care costs as thousands of companies throughout the country are using the nurse triage plan. Said Binsfeld, "our goal is to create a warm, empathetic hug over the phone."
The process aims for three key benefits: right time, right care, right results. Another major benefit for employers, injured workers that have a positive experience are less likely to seek out an attorney.
|
Data recently released to the Association of Administrative Law Judges and made available to The Associated Press, report the grim increase of 18 percent in the last year, of threats to kill or harm judges who hear Social Security disability cases. Claimants are angered over being denied benefits or frustrated at lengthy delays in processing claims. A Senate subcommittee is expected to hear testimony November 15th about the rising number of threats, as well as the status of the massive backlog in applications for disability benefits, which are available to people who can't work because of medical problems.
|
The Institue of Work and Health Canada has investigated the association between modified work for injured workers and lower burden of disability. The study tested several hypotheses, including that when facilities adopt modified work practices they will have more no-time-loss claims relative to time-loss claims, and the hypothesis that facilities offering modified work arrangements would have lower compensation expenditures. Researchers found evidence that adpoting modified work practices increased the ratio of no-time-loss claims to time-loss claims. There was no strong evidence that modified work was associated with lower disability costs. Senior Scientist Dr. Cameron Mustard said, "we determined that about 60 per cent of disability days were managed by modified work arrangements...However, in this setting, the disability days managed by modified duty arrangements were not accurately documented in workers’ compensation claim records."
|
Women with "very demanding" jobs are almost twice as likely to have a heart attack as their peers in less stressful occupations, reports CNN News. A review of 10 years worth of survey and medical data of over 17,000 women found that those who reported their workload as "very hard" or "very fast," were 88 per cent more likely to have a heart-attack, as well as 43 per cent more likely to need heart surgery. Additionally, women who were stressed by work or worried about job-loss were more likely to be physically inactive and have high cholesterol. Paul Landsbergis, Ph.D, says women are more likely than men to experience job strain.
|
Stress forces one in five UK workers to call in sick, yet 93 per cent of these people report lying to their bosses about the real reason for not turning up, Medical News Today reports. Workplace pressures remain a huge taboo, despite the fact that 70 per cent of workers would like to be able to discuss stress with their employers - with one third wishing their boss would make the first move to approach them directly when showing signs of work stress. Paul Farmer, CEO of UK mental health charity Mind said, "pretending the problem isn't there only makes things worse. Looking after stress levels and promoting a mentally healthy workplace reduces sick leave, helps staff to stay productive and ultimately saves hard-pressed businesses money." The UK loses £8.4bn through sick days caused by poor mental wellbeing.
|
According to the recent report in New England Journal of Medicine, stem cell transplants have been shown to help certain persons blinded by burns. Italian doctors were able to increase the number of stem cells needed to fix injured eyes, a technique that is believed to be far less invasive than removing tissue directly from the eye. The Italian study involved 106 patients who were treated for almost a decade. More than 75 percent of the patients regained sight after the operation and it was partially successful for another 13 percent of the patients. Positive results were seen in as little as one to two months.
|
You really can teach old dogs new tricks. Annual Review - time for a change. Feedback on performance can have as many complexities as there are managers to administer it. Millennials (men and women born between the 1970's and mid 1990's) seem to request/require a lot of on-going feedback. What its proving is that the workplace is one of the most feedback-deprived places in modern life. Daniel H Pink, author and business leader, explores new concepts to adapt to a changing "feedback culture".
|
The same, only different. Award-winning orthopedic and spinal surgeon, Dr Orso Osti, wants the law changed so workers can no longer receive compensation for low back pain. Sounds pretty drastic and perhaps it is, but Dr Osti believes that patients loose out in the long run and "everyone else - rehab providers, lawyers, doctors and insurers - prosper on these people's long-term misery." The problem arises when doctors cannot find an injury and the patient has to prove there is a problem. Former WorkCover director Dr Kevin Purse suggests reforming the system so that compensation arrangements helped people get back to work, not penalize them for being injured.
|
Adios, bad habit. November 3 was designated by The American Heart Association as Start! Eating Healthy Day to encourage the public to make good nutrition a priority -- even on the job. Read about how several Louisville-area businesses observed the occasion and how the campaign is designed to help employers get workers on the path to better health
|
Tax breaks in Hollywood. There is an exemption within the IRS' Employer's Tax Guide that states that workers who are entitled to disability insurance benefits under the Social Security Act are EXEMPT from paying Social Security and Medicare tax on earnings. Any actor, TV writer, director, stunt performer, etc. who is on disability and who is receiving residual pay, has a tax break of which most are unfortunately missing out on. Simply put, FICA should not be deducted from residual checks. Where does the problem lie and how easy is it to fix?
|
Motivation or Productivity? Research shows productivity is more important to businesses. So says Aviva Health, in its annual report, Health of the Workplace. Dr Doug Wright, principal clinical consultant at Aviva UK Health, said: "The study suggests that while employers are making some very positive moves towards creating a healthy workplace environment, the overwhelming priority is still on financial performance."
|
Stress found as common cause. A joint survey conducted by the CIPD and health care provider SimplyHealth, found that more than one-third (35 per cent) of employers reported stress as the main reason for long term sickness absence in the past year. Not surprisingly, public sector positions such as social work, policing, teaching and nursing, raise the results by 3 days per person over private sector employees. Hypnotherapy or counseling as anxiety treatments have been shown to be highly effective in discovering the cause behind feelings of stress prior to treatment and may benefit employers wanting to offer them.
|
A Virginia worker injured her shoulder at work. When she returned to work at a light-duty position, she quickly finished her assigned tasks and spent the next 6 weeks sitting in an office doing nothing. Was she entitled to benefits after quitting? Find out what happened: to the employee when she quit; the company who offered a light-duty position and who dropped the ball, and how.
|
Sign, sign, everywhere a sign. We're not talking billboards but how to spot classic signs of substance abuse and how to help both employee and employer deal with the enormous human and financial consequences in the workplace. Many employers work with Employee Assistance Programs to provide assistance for substance abuse as well as many other personal and family issues. Not to be overlooked in drug and alcohol abuse policies is the legal angle. Abilene, Texas has some workable resources and programs to help.
|
The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) is responsible for enforcing, for the benefit of job seekers and wage earners, the contractual promise of affirmative action and equal employment opportunity required of those who do business with the Federal government. ODEP is charged with providing national leadership on disability employment policy. The Women's Bureau safeguards the interests of working women, advocates for their equality and economic security, and promotes quality work environments. See how these three agencies have and will impact workforce flexibility for people with disabilities and all workers.
|
Let's do the math. Is it better for one person to be off work for a couple of days - or - spread a virus around the workplace? Considering that 10 to 12 percent of American workers get the flu each year and that translates to 15 million lost workdays, the answer seems simple. Yet, 55 percent of US workers do not have any paid sick days. The annual cost to business in lost productivity from employees who go to work sick? $150 billion. Read on to see how you can alter the bottom line.
|
Dr. Marianne Cloeren, medical director of Managed Care Advisors Inc. in Bethesda, MD., shares her expertise in meeting the challenges of government employees returning to work after suffering on-the-job injuries or illnesses. Dr. Cloeren addresses behavioral issues, workers' compensation system obstacles, and medical opinions as contributing component parts to the process as a whole and how attitude adjustments help make the process effective.
|
Organizational culture is the particular set of values shared within an organization that control, direct and manage interaction within and outside of the organization. About half of executive teams lack information to manage effectively as employees are prone to hold back due to apprehension. Breaking down barriers to honest feedback can reduce deceit and misdemeanors, but also deliver better shareholder returns by a significant margin. In today's challenging market, the key to competitive advantage is organizational culture.
|
Do you know what the letters NDEAM stand for? National Disability Employment Awareness Month or "Myth Busters" if you like less syllables and a bit of a romantic turn. Other things you may not know: 1 in 5 Americans has a disability, 87 percent of the public prefers to do business with organizations that hire people with disabilities, 2.3 million emerging college students have disabilities. Since many myths remain about hiring people with disabilities NDEAM was formed to dispel them. Celebrate October. Celebrate NDEAM.
|
A recent report in the American Journal of Health Promotion found wellness programs reduced health care costs for companies by about 26 percent, and cut sick leave by an average of 28 percent. Wednesday, local and national experts will gather in Denver at a statewide health conference, in part highlighting the role of workplace wellness programs in addressing rising health care costs and collaborating to remain competitive.
|
How do you make a difference? T. Norman Van Cott, Ph. D, an adjunct scholar of the Indiana Policy Review Foundation and professor of economics at Ball State University, takes issue with the notion of what it means to make a difference when celebrating "National Day of Doing Good", the fourth Saturday of October. Largely thought of as a day being involved in projects across America that benefit children, families, the elderly, neighborhoods and entire communities, Van Cott believes hands down, no question, day in, day out, it is the American marketplace.
|
Let's look at the numbers. Job pressures are the number 1 stressor leading to health complaints. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 60 to 70 percent of all disease and illness is stress related. Sharon M Weinstein, MS, RN, CRNI, FACW, FAAN, provides 3 tips that will help de-stress your life.
|
You may never have considered Dog and Cat to be anything but Fido and Fluffy but if you know anything about Yoga you know this movement is the key to increasing flexibility of the spine. The great news is practicing basic yoga positions may reduce the amount of preventable accidents that occur in the workplace. This week, The Wall Street Journal profiled Allan Nett, a former contractor turned yogi, who leads "Yoga with Your Boots On" classes designed for construction workers or "hard hatters" in the San Francisco Bay area.
|
Newly unemployed workers are finding that they do not have the skills that would allow them to compete with other applicants for the job they just left. Running leaner and meaner means that although there are fewer workers the duties haven't disappeared. This requires that other workers take up the slack by performing the duties that their co-workers left behind.
|
Since the beginning of the recession, it's become survival of the fittest, and the hungriest. Working more with less has become the mode of operation for many employers.
|
Do wellness programs reduce benefit costs? Donna Marshall, executive director of the Colorado Business Group sure seems to think so and she gives some very compelling evidence as to why this is so.
|
Throughout the world, seminars and groups that center on laughing are popping up in hospitals and in the workplace and that's no joke. To reduce stress and increase feelings of wellbeing, there is some truth in the old saying that laughter is the best medicine.
|
Even before an injury occurs, healthy workers reduce the cost of workers compensation. Workers who are fit and in good general health are less likely to become injured and when an injury does occur, they have a quicker recovery than unhealthy workers. Because poor health factors can compromise the healing process, unhealthy workers are at a higher risk for injury and their healing is often delayed. By providing wellness programs, employers not only do the right thing by employees, they're also conducting good business practices.
|
Want to feel more motivated at work? Amanda Gore, an expert on occupation health and the creation of joy at work, says: "find a bigger purpose in what you're doing no matter what your job." At odds with that theory is Oonagh Moodling, a writer and speaker on desensitization of the workplace, who says "Your dissatisfaction at work is a gift...it's because you're in the wrong place." You may also wish to consider Anthony Bonnici's thoughts of "...linking your work with the one thing that gets you up up every morning -- whether it be the need for power, achievement, recognition, affiliation, or security." Finally, from the late Jim Rohn, the motivational guru: "Motivation is not enough. If you have an idiot and you motivate him, now you have a motivated idiot."
|
One risk no business can afford. No business or organization can ignore behavior that results in staff absenteeism, morale decline, loss of productivity or high staff turnover. But that is exactly what happens when bullying, whether overt or subtle, is not managed in the workplace. Bullying is a huge financial risk to a business and developing a better risk culture may require management training to mediate issues. Helping to identify and spot cases of bullying creates an environment where intimidation is not tolerated. This can be formalized through core values and employment guidelines. It is crucially important that a culture of trust and respect dominate within the organization.
|
Worth your weight in gold? New Research from the University of Florida finds that, for women, the smaller your waist -- the bigger your paycheck. Not so for men; thinner men actually make less money. What does this say about Americans' mentality toward weight? Is there a correlation between weight and appearance and the conclusion that those employees work harder? Is the larger man considered more capable than another? Watch the video and decide.
|
"I've been surrounded by beasts my whole life." Ms L'Estrange-Corbet, world fashion designer and depression sufferer, spoke about her own struggles with mental illness and the suicidal death of an employee of hers, as guest speaker at the WHK Chamber of Commerce Business Forum on Mental Health luncheon . "If people work with people with disabilities like that (depression), they get used to it and don't find it so daunting," said Ms L'Estrange-Corbet. The Business Forum on Mental Health, which started last spring, aims to have businesses adopt "policies, procedures and philosophies" that look after employees' mental health such as, breaking down the barriers of stigma and descrimination in recruiting and creating a good workplace culture.
|
Beyond comp. Many employees know they generally give up the right to sue their employer for the ability to pursue workers' compensation benefits for a work injury. What they may not realize is that workers' compensation does not excuse the negligence of third parties -- that is, other involved people or businesses. Falls, contact with objects or equipment, or becoming caught in equipment or objects are just a few of the examples which may involve third-parties; such as, property owners, subcontractors or even equipment manufacturers. Labor Secretary Hilda L. Solis reportedly issued a statement that, among other things, indicated an injured worker is not without recourse and should consult with an attorney regarding their rights to compensation.
|
Stress begone! We've all heard of cortisol, the hormone that creates stress, but what we've recently heard is that those who underwent a deep-tissue massage were found to have significantly lowered levels of cortisol. Couple that with the benefit of increased numbers of white blood cells which are integral to the immune system and you've got a one-two punch natural health remedy for just about everything from back problems to high blood pressure.
|
A new research article states that the price of cigarettes at the milk bar or news stand is, 'only a very small price of the true price that smokers pay for their habit.' According to the article, the average cost of a pack of cigarettes is not 3-4 Euros, but €107 ($150 AUD) for male smokers and €75 ($105 AUD) for female smokers. The figures are based on the premature death cost associated with the increased risk of death due to tobacco consumption, and are seperate from the even bigger costs of healthcare. Researchers question the notion of 'consumer sovreignity,' saying that those who smoke do not do so because the pleasure of smoking is greater than its cost, but rather because of the addictive power of nicotine and their faliure to understand its true cost.
|
A study by the Families and Work Institute and the Sloan Center on Aging & Work found that 75 percent of workers aged 50 and over expect to have retirement jobs in the future, Aging Workforce News reports. This is set to change the future workforce, with only one in five workers who have fully retired from their former career currently working for pay in a new role. Interestingly, less than one in five of the people 'working in retirement' report working due to insufficient income. Instead, 31 per cent reported wanting to stay active, and 18 per cent wanted to contribute and be productive.
|
Workers who are subjected to constant noise have twice the risk of heart disease compared to those with quieter jobs, The Age reports. The study found that one in five of the 6307 respondents worked in a noisy workplace, which was defined as, 'any environment where people had to raise their voices to be heard.' Lead researcher Qi Gan said that while people believe heart disease belongs to older people, the study 'found that young workers, those under 50, are most vulnerable to occupational noise. For them, there is a three-to four-fold increased prevalence in heart disease.'
|
Circadian - a fascinating rhythm. Associate Professor, Dr. Greg Murray, from Melbourne's Swinburne University of Technology, who studies circadian rhythms in mood disorders, says it could take days and weeks for a person's sleep-wake rhythm to adjust fully to daylight saving. "This additional loss of sleep appears to cause decreased alertness, concentration and mental performance", Dr. Murray said. However, once the body adjusts there are clear benefits. Dr. Murray says humans are social animals and more daylight allows extra time for exercise, meeting friends, and an opportunity to bed down positive new habits.
|
Its not just for kids. Impulsive? Inattentive? Have trouble finishing projects? Does this sound like anyone you know? Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder's (ADHD) existence in adults is often overlooked. Statistics show that two-thirds of adults who had ADHD as a child still have it and since the symptoms may affect an employee's productivity and personal relationships its helpful to seek diagnosis and treatment. Employing an EAP (employee assistance program) specialist, most of whom have had some experience with ADHD, to assist with the screening process or recommend a more extensive exam when indicated, can be beneficial. For the person suffering from ADHD, knowing there's a reason for their actions can have a significant impact on their personal and professional life.
|
Dogs and cats and hamsters, oh my! Want to lower your blood pressure or give the boot to stress? Consider a pet. Caregivers in a study with "stress related" high blood pressure from providing care to loved ones suffering from traumatic brain injuries, had significantly improved blood pressure and heart rate levels after just 6 months of having been given a pet compared to caregivers without. This study used dogs but there's plenty of research to show that all pets help us beat stress. Can't swing a pet of your own? Volunteer at a shelter. Take a family or friend's pet for a couple of days. Tune into Animal Planet. Sharing companionship with animals has a rate of return like few other endeavors.
|
Work is no longer where you go, but what you do. In May 2010, Business and Professional Women's Foundation (BPW Foundation) went virtual. Through their own research it was recognized that empowering, productive and profitable qualities reside in flexible, virtual office environments. Five months into a flexible, adaptable and open-minded work approach, they've come up with their list of 10 initial guidelines on how to create a work model linking profitability and flexibility: 1) Do Your Homework 2) Hire an expert...(open minded, adaptable readers click the link for the entire article.)
|
The lung bone connected to the heart bone. Ok bad attempt at making a connection but take heart, literally. Dr. A N Siriwardena, and colleagues, in a study published online in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, involving more than 78,000 patients in England and Wales, found that getting a flu shot within the previous year reduced the rate of first heart attacks by 19 percent among those 40 and older. Further, the earlier in the season (Sept. to mid-Nov.) you get your flu shot, the more significant the protection than after mid-November. Respiratory infection is the common denominator and somehow triggers plaque rupture in arteries, leading to blockage. Smokers are especially cautioned to protect themselves.
|
UK ok's Equality Act 2010. Employers are no longer free to ask any and all the medical questions they please. As of October 1, only specifically task related medical questions may be requested prior to a job offer. The new legislation also shifts the burden of proof to the employer, puts into one place all the piecemeal developments since the mid-70's and aligns the UK with several surrounding countries, including the US, which have established legal restrictions on pre-employmet medical checks. There is some concern about the employer being aware of any barriers preventing people from entering the workplace that they may be able to help people overcome and this can be greatly assisted by good, sophisticated training at the HR and communications level.
|
With unemployment poised near 10 per cent in the US, out-out-work people are increasingly facing depression, heavy alcohol use and long-term psychological damage, reports LA Times. Investigating the impact of worklessness, researchers have found that "paychecks alone can't explain the link between work and well-being." They found that trivial tasks are far better than no work at all for increasing overall happiness, with people able to find meaning in seemingly insignificant jobs. One experiment confirmed that people were far more willing to work if they felt a sense of achievement. In one case, "those who found their task meaningless demanded about 40 per cent higher wages than those who witnesses the fruits of their labour."
|
A study in the Journal of Health & Productivity has concluded that it's a lot cheaper to include healthy workers in a workplace wellness program before they get sick, Medical News Today reports. The study involved some of the most unhealthy workers reserachers had ever seen, but through small ($200 over 24 paychecks) cash incentives to employees, implemented a four-year workplace wellness program that "fueled some of the biggest improvements in employee health the researchers had ever witnessed." The program involved health risk appraisals, health screenings, counselling sessions and health learning modules. Employees classed as 'low-risk' increased from 51 per cent to 64 per cent, participation increased to 77 per cent, and some participant decreased in 10 of 15 health risks.
|
Smokers are taking four 15-minute breaks daily, adding up to 445 days over the length of their average working life, a new study of 2,500 British smokers has found. Express.co.uk reports that one in 10 smokers reported nipping outside for a chat without even lighting up. The study, conducted by OnePoll, also found that four out of five smokers didn't cut down on their breaks during the economic downturn. A OnePoll spokesman said, "These statistics are bound to annoy employers who are paying people to puff away...They will also irritate non-smokers, who wouldn't get away with taking four 15-minute coffee breaks a day."
|
Desktop virtualization. Huh? Dr. Katy Ring, Director, K2 Advisory and author of a fresh look at organizational IT, points out that only about half of 65% of organizations that carry out employee satisfaction surveys, bother to measure employee satisfaction with their technology devices, despite the dependence on devices and their importance in improving productivity. In many cases, employees know more than their bosses about what they need. The way the digital workplace is evolving is at odds with the one-size-fits-all approach. Regardless of the type of organization, one key technology investment will be the migration to desktop virtualization. As working life extends, organizations will have to support different generations of users from the 'echo boomers' to the 'baby boomers' in their 60s and possibly beyond.
|
"The First Penguin Award", the idea of the late computer science professor Randy Pausch (famous for giving his "Last Lecture" at Carnegie Mellon University after being diagnosed with terminal cancer), was awarded to the team of students who took the greatest gamble toward achieving their goals -- and failed. Although mistakes can be used to strengthen innovation, there is still a stigma attached to making errors at work. The workplace needs to begin accommodating mistakes creating a culture where we can feel safe to admit what went wrong without fear of reprisal. From there, a dialogue can begin on what can be learned from the mistake.
"People who fear mistakes make no progress" Molly Napier
|
Ignoring long-term absenteeism doesn't make sense. Impact on the workplace is immediate when an employee is on extended leave. Not replacing those employees hampers productivity and affects morale. But employers are many times paralyzed by fear of human rights and harassment complaints, workers' comp applications or other litigations. Contrary to prevailing beliefs, human rights legislation does not compel employers to keep a position open indefinitely. In a recent decision of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, after three years of efforts to accommodate an absent employee with light duties were unsuccessful and medical reports showed no significant improvement in his condition, the employer was supported in treating the employment as "frustrated" and at an end.
|
Have a heart. September 23, the World Heart Federation joined the movement of workplace fitness, as one of the fastest growing segments of fitness, by calling on employers to take more responsibility for workplace wellness. According to newly released information, the vast majority (91%) of workers believe it is their employer's responsibility to create a healthy working environment. WHF made its announcement, based on a worldwide workers' survey, ahead of Sept. 26, World Heart Day, the largest global awareness campaign on heart disease and stroke.
|
As the river flows, so does creativity and innovation within organizations that promote employee health and well-being. A likelihood of three and a half times as much, according to a study presented my Right Management's research team at the World Economic Forum. We now have persuasive evidence linking health and well-being to greater employee engagement, productivity, talent retention - and of utmost importance in today's economy - creativity and innovation. Key drivers: health and safety, reasonable balance of work / home life, appropriate workload, progress with balancing work & personal interests, and a reasonable amount of pressure. It would be wise for any organization considering improving employee wellness to consider how effectively they're addressing these factors.
|
Be the driver. Drive is what propels you forward in your career. Loss of enthusiasm may keep you from volunteering for projects or assignments to better your position. It may lead to a negative frame of mind which may have several negative outcomes: stress, depression, lack of confidence, and a loss of productivity. We all have bad days but in the grand scheme of things it is important to maintain your motivation and enthusiasm even when it might be difficult to do so. It is one of the keys that will open the door to a successful career.
|
Have that "square peg in a round hole" feeling? You just may be an outsider. Being unique helps you stand out from the crowd. But when you lack the joy of working and feel like you don't fit into your work culture or job role, you may need to consider how to become an insider. The key is to recognize what keeps you fulfilled in your job and stay true to yourself. In his book "Outsiders on the Inside", David Couper suggests an exercise that helps job seekers pinpoint their strengths and organize them in ways to promote the value of being unique. Maximize your career satisfaction by learning to leverage your strengths instead of trying to force yourself to fit into a job.
|
Clear the way for debate and discussion - here comes "change". If cultural change is transpiring within your organization, employees have to come into alignment for success. "Humane transitions are key," says Marty Parker, president and chief executive officer of Waterstone Human Capitol and founder of Canada's 10 Most Admired Corporate Cultures program. A major challenge for employers, after understanding where each individual employee sits, is determining who is not on board with change, and why. Often, the most silent in the changing climate are the least happy. Employees may not know how to fit in. Mr Parker says "Your role is to find out how to help turn those who can be. But unless people believe it's for the greater good, convincing them is difficult." Focus on the new evolved behavior to get to the desired end and give lots of positive reinforcement. Adds Parker, "Recognition is free, by the way
|
What do China and India have in common? Both are surging ahead while Western Europe and the US struggle to emerge from the global recession. One of the chief engines of these explosive economies: educated women. With ambitions of female talent in the top emerging markets, Chinese and Indian women demonstrate stratospheric levels of aspiration, double that of their counterparts in the US. Cultural constraints limit women's mobility and hamstring their career potential. Childcare issues are far less a career issue in both India and China compared to the US, but eldercare has the potential to derail a career. Chinese women routinely notch up more than 70 hours per week, while Indian women rarely break 60 hours, but both are significant when compared to the standard 40 hours. Companies wishing to help these highly qualified women realize their full potential will have to understand their needs and ambitions and alter policies accordingly. But that help is the surest route to continued growth.
|
Riddle me this: what's gone up but brings you down? The proportion of injured workers who never return to the workplace has risen consistently over the past five years. The kicker is, the longer you're out of work, the worse your health becomes, according to a report by the Australasian Faculty of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. Loss of identity and social status, a tendency towards a sedentary lifestyle; all are factors that weigh heavily after workplace injury and long-term worklessness. Add to that the increased risks of cardiovascular disease, lung cancer and suicide and the risks become far greater. But messages about the benefits of returning to work appear not to be getting through to employers, doctors or the workforce in general.
|
Nap sack...new flavor of the day? Work place nap rooms at Ben and Jerry's headquarters building in Vermont have been announced to solve the problem of sleep-deprived employees. A recent survey by the National Sleep Foundation shows that approximately 30 % of workers have fallen asleep or have had to deal with being very tired at work. Naps are proven to help recover creative thinking and memory. They can help you feel better physically. They can not, nor should they, take the place of a proper, nighttime sleep regimen.
|
Don't worry. Be happy. Or get on down the road. Roxanne Emmerich, culture consultant, says stop thinking the grass is greener. Build a more positive workplace so you can love where you are before updating that resume. A 2006 study by the Gallup Management Journal estimated a typical organization loses $3,400 in productivity for every $10,000 of payroll due to disengaged employees. "So while bottom-line troubles are often said to fuel disengagement, it's really the other way around," Emmerich said. Employers should do everything possible to improve employee engagement...and so should employees.
|
In Canada, mental illness accounts for more lost work time than any other chronic condition, costing $51 billion CAD annually in lost productivity, Medical News Today Reports. In the first study of its kind, researchers found that on average, mental health leave costs double that of a physical illness. Dr. Carolyn Dewa said, "We know that mental health triggers in the workplace can lead to disability...while it is important to support workers that are on disability leave, it is crucial that businesses make mental health and wellness a priority to prevent disability in the first place."
|
New research confirms that a high level of the stress hormone cortisol strongly predicts cardiovascular death in people with and without pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, reports Medical News Today. The research is the first to prove the link between chronically elevated cortisol levels - which can be the result of chronic stress - and cardiovascular mortality. "Cortisol is an important component of the stress system of the human body but in higher concentrations can be harmful," said researcher Nicole Vogelzangs. "Our study shows that older persons with high levels of cortisol have an increased risk of dying from cardiovascular disease."
|
A Frenchman has crossed the English channel - by swimming, and without arms or legs, ABC News reports. Phillipe Croizon lost all his limbs after the TV antenna he was attempting to adjust connected with a powerline, hitting him with a 20,000 volt charge. While in hospital, Phillipe saw a television documentary about a Channel swimmer and decided to take on the challenge, "for myself, my family and all my fellows in misfortune who have lost their taste for life." Mr Croizon trained for two years with flipper-shaped prosthetic legs prior to the crossing, which took him 12 hours.
|
A UK study has found more British workers hand in their resignations during this week in September than in any other week of the year, FMWF reports. 37 per cent of all resignations occur during this period, while 24 per cent happen during the first week of February. These mass quittings both generally occur four weeks after the traditional UK holiday periods. Lee Durrant, managing director of Resource on Demand, said , "Time away from our desks helps us to consider our options and evaluate out careers. Our advice is that if you are not enjoying your job, maybe it is time to look for a role that you will enjoy."
|
West Virginia is finally getting its arms around a decade starting with a $3 billion, unfunded liabilities, state-run workers' comp program. Today there are 176 companies writing workers comp insurance in the state and by Nov. 1, rates will have declined by 43.7 percent. Unfunded liabilities should be paid off by 2018 or 2019 instead of 2034, as initially projected. Of course, this is in the face of a redesigned American health care program which has resulted in a doubling of the number of claims filed every month. The results are: overall workers' comp rates are going down by 2.9 percent of 5.8 percent.
|
Hey, this isn't brain science...or is it? Small choices, like choosing a banana over a bag of chips, are important to start living a healthy lifestyle today. "Focusing on your health and the nutrients you put into your body is a critical way to strengthen your life and your career" said Dian Griesel, co-founder of the Business School of Happiness. Reports show that poor diet on the job is reducing productivity in countries around the work by as much as 20 percent. "If you aren't giving your body the tools it needs to function, you aren't giving your mind the tools it needs to execute mental tasks," says Griesel.
|
A chair is still a chair. You might recognize these opening lyrics to an old favorite song but in the workplace a chair can be so much more. Preventing future injuries and eliminating current problems is all in a days work for Elaine Patterson, a physical therapist for Parkview Occupational Health. In Patterson's observations the most common work station faux pas: chairs not fitting properly, keyboard and a mouse at heights that cause wrist strain and monitors placed at incorrect heights or angles causing constant turning of the neck to the side or up or down. The good news is there are some simple ways to prevent discomfort and injury, says Patterson.
|
Oh buddy mine, Working with a buddy, mentor, or engaging in competition, are all ways to enhance motivation, according to Larry Chapman, president and CEO of The Chapman Institute in Seattle. The motivation Chapman is referring to is employee participation in workplace wellness programs. Chapman reports results from a study done on 22 companies with wellness programs which averaged a 300 percent return, most on sick leave pay and health plan payments.. Chapman said such programs should be a strategic part of a company's budget.
|
The secret's in the sauce. For Jason Caras, coCEO of IT Authorities, the sauce is asking everyone in the company to be a leader. Caras relies on two concepts: A single extra step of effort in your live and job can have the same energizing effect as the 1 degree it takes to change hot (211*) to boiling (212*), and CAN (Constant And Never-ending improvement). For these concepts to work Caras says, you as the business owner or leader, must expect the same from yourself as your employees.
|
Where's the support? Have you ever thought of domestic violence as a reason for discrimination? Consider one such victim who was fired after an episode at work when her abusive former husband came to her office and started yelling at her. Or a single mother on official warning for absenteeism, dismissed after missing work because of bruising and swelling on her face, suffered at the hands of her former husband. Support and advocacy groups say their services regularly encountered employers who were unsupportive when made aware that an employee was a victim of domestic violence. Bosses are discriminating by denying the time off for medical and legal appointments for these employees who are already being victimized.
|
Growth in the right direction? A study conducted by, CompScopeTM Benchmarks for Pennsylvania, 10th Edition, found that total costs per claim with 12 months of experience with more than seven days of lost time in Pennsylvania grew 6 percent in 2007. PPD/lump-sum settlements increased and medical payments jumped. Total costs per claim were typical to the 15 other states that were part of the study, averaging $7,000 per claim with 36 months of experience (2005-2008). However, researchers said the total cost per claim with more than seven days of lost time in Pennsylvania was somewhat higher than the median study state, which masks several offsetting factors.
|
Finding a balance. Employees nationwide now rank benefits as the second-most important aspect of job satisfaction, behind only job security. South Carolina in-state businesses are attacking rising health care costs by expanding consumer-driven health care programs, initiating wellness programs and providing health risk assessments, among others, a new survey reported. The survey, 2010 South Carolina Employer Benefits
Survey, was conducted by Rosenfeld Einstein, one of the Carolinas' fastest growing insurance agency/brokers. The survey considers PPO's, high deductible health plans or HDHP's, co-pays, short and long-term disability coverages, to name a few. See how South Carolina compares nationally.
|
Shifting the paradigm. Authors, Steve Schwartz, PhD of Health Media Inc,, and John Reidel, MPH, MBA of Reidel and Associates, seek to "highlight important productivity measurement issues for consideration in an overall business strategy." Their article in the September Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, points out that companies need new and better employee productivity measurement tools. Schwartz and Reidel hope their article will lead to further maturation of "high quality" instruments for measuring worker productivity, and using this information to improve worker health - as well as the financial health of employers.
|
"The best type of injury is the one that never happens" Old Adage Seems as though Old Adage had something there. The efficacy of health and safety programs is well documented. Despite recent declines, workplace injuries continue to be one of the largest cost drivers in the U.S. It is estimated that indirect costs of injuries may be as high as five times the direct cost. Proactive management of workplace injuries through early intervention injury management, functional employment testing and development of health and safety workplace cultures are proven to reduce injuries and healthcare costs - a sound return on investment.
|
Against all odds. We're disheartened by an almost 10% unemployment rate but what would you think if it were 65% or higher? Unfortunately, that is the statistic for disabled workers. Fortunately, cities like Richmond, VA boast the Greater Richmond ARC and so do the more than 220 individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities who are aided by them. The ARC provides training, coaching, and work on-site at its north Richmond production facility, as well as, grounds work, custodial, and a variety of other employment opportunities. In addition to the ability to support themselves and their families, one of the many benefits of gainfully employed individuals with disabilities is savings of more than $7,000 per person in government subsidies.
|
Ch-ch-changes. There would be a lot less people looking for work if we could convince our leadership to make changes. A good leader should turn around occasionally and see if anyone is following their example, principles and values. Effective leaders make others feel important; they promote a clear vision and are visible to employees. Effective leaders admit mistakes and understand the need to meet people where they are. Expect good leaders? You should demand good leadership at the helm to create a workplace culture where people can come together as a team to strive for company success.
|
More than one-fifth of Germany's population will be over 65 by the year 2010. As the employer of 18,000 ageing manufacturing workers, BMW wanted to utilise their olders workers' "more patience and skill," while supporting their changing needs. BMW staffed one of their assembly lines so that the average worker age was 47 - which is the age prediction for seven years time. BMW then consulted the workers as to what they needed, which saw a rollout of 70 changes including custom-made shoes, magnifying panels, wooden flooring, modified hairdresser chairs and stretching equipment. The results? Productivity went up seven per cent, absenteeism fell below the plant's average and the defect rate dropped to zero. Watch this link for the video report.
|
Workers' comp revisited. In California in 2004, an essential part of Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's reforms dropped the pure-premium rates to $1.76 per $100 of payroll - compared with $4.80 per $100 prior to the reforms. The cost to businesses of workers' compensation could go up as much as 29.6 % this year - still below 2004 levels but if the state isn't careful, it could get back into difficulty. The hike is being recommended by the Workers' Compensation Insurance Rating Bureau, a nonprofit bureau made up of the more than 400 companies that sell workers' comp insurance in California.
|
Workers receiving treatment for depression are twice as likely to use short-term disability as their co-workers who have never been treated for mental health issues, according to Spencer's Benefits Reports. The study also speculates that if these same employees were given therapy along with anti-depressant prescriptions it would result in substantial savings for employers since one of the biggest reasons for their high rate of absenteeism is failure to take their medications as prescribed.
|
Feedback isn't just a noisy mic. Nor is it a one way street. HR creates the tools for improving performance but managers must be trained and motivated to participate in putting them in place. Successful managers at any level know what motivates their employees. Surprise reviews and the use of reviews to "get rid" of under-performing workers isn't the road to employee buy-in. When performance reviews have a pre-determined outcome, the process isn't working. Want employee ownership of performance? Outline expectations, create give-and-take feedback, discuss training and development needs, ensure employee opportunities and needs were captured and actioned.
|
Risky business - or- Who can you trust? In the mid-1990's, insurance brokers became more active in forming trusts because workers' compensation coverage, required by every company, was getting so expensive. Today, a growing insolvency crisis, born of years of lax oversight by state regulators, is threatening to leave thousands of small business owing $600 million or more to NY insurance pools they trusted to pay claims from workplace death and injury. Taxpayers may be forced to pick up the tab if lawsuits or other means can't recover the deficits. NY's Workers' Comp Bd, which regulates the trusts, received its first audits in 2003, nearly a decade after the group insurance pools rose to popularity. By 2006, the first of these trusts became insolvent. Between 2007 and 2008, at least seven trusts administered by Compensation Risk Managers unexpectedly defaulted. A state's comp board suit seeks more than $400 million and accuses CRM of inaccurate financial reports hiding the depth of their problems.
Group self-insured trusts in NY reached a peak in 2007 at 18,000+ active employer members compared to 4,250 last year. Weakness in the structure is the bulk of the decision-making is done by individuals whose interests do not always align with those of members. Financial problems at the Builders' Self Insurance Trust surfaced under new administration, citing trustees' deep discounting of premiums to members and unwillingness to pass along fees charged by regulators. It became insolvent by early 2009. There is a moratorium on the formation of new trusts and a task force earlier this summer recommended ending the remaining group of self-insured trusts. The more successful trusts, like First Cardinal Corp. of Latham, which administered a number of trusts with a surplus, were those with good administration.
|
OH professionals and job security. As the government plans to phase out the default retirement age (DRA) next year, extra responsibility on occupational health professionals may result to maintain the health and productivity of older workers. Supporting and maintaining health and well-being at work will require input from a range of professionals in occupational health, public health, safety, occupational psychology, human resources and social policy - all of which become more pressing issues for employers.
|
To be or not to be - retired? Two years ago attitudes expressed were 100% of workers said they planned to retire, with only 1% unsure of when it was possible. An recent online poll among 1,478 UK workers undertaken by ICM Research on behalf of Baring Asset Management revealed the number of people no longer expecting to retire has jumped to 15 percent (ages 55 to 74) and 36 percent (66 and older). The Institute of Occupational Medicine has warned that welcome though it may be to remove the default retirement age, managing health needs of older workers could prove a challenge for employers. While older workers tend to be more accurate and can call on accumulated knowledge and experience, age-related physiological changes tend to have a bigger effect.
|
Redundancy: personal failure or opportunity? It's all in the handling. Once there is a certainty that a redundancy is not due to an employee's long-term absence, regular and transparent communication is the most important step. The goal is helping the employee manage a smooth transition out of the role. Discuss the situation with the person, talk about their skills and abilities, work with them to identify other potential roles. The clearer the explanations and reasons for the redundancy, the easier for the individual to accept, prepare and move on. Company employee assistance programs can be helpful for advice on career counseling, legal and financial guidance. Be sure to seek advice and guidance from your legal department to be certain to meet legal requirements.
|
One cannot, however, truthfully argue that Social Security has both increased income security and wealth for Americans as a whole, writes Mickey Hepner, associate professor of economics at the University of Central Oklahoma. In an op article written by Hepner, he points out, we cannot evaluate a program just off of the benefits it provides- we must also consider the costs the program generates. Accordingly, Americans paid $30 billion more in payroll taxes than they received in retirement and survivor benefits last year. Over its 75 year history, the amount of surplus taxes with interest (charged at a very low rate), comes to more than $2.3 trillion! These costs raise serious questions as to whether this popular program should continue in its present form for another 75 years.
|
The latest time-bomb? Harvard Professor Rosabeth Moss Kanter, writing in the Harvard Business Review, argues that the root causes for desk rage is anchored in the American culture. Agree or disagree, a U.S. News and World Report poll says that 89% of U.S. workers said incivility is a serious problem and 78% said it is getting worse. Further, John Challenger, CEO of a Chicago based workplace consulting company, reports that their surveys show that up to 3% of people admit to pushing, slapping or hitting someone at work. With roughly 100 million people in the U.S. workforce, that's 3 million guilty workers. Whether it be austerity measures, increased workloads or a reflection of society, this is a disturbing trend; one that employers and executives need to take seriously.
|
The road to enlightenment or just another dim bulb? While staff endures pay freezes and job cuts in the current economic slump, bonuses may still be rolling in at the top. Research by Transparent Consulting has ranked the top 30 FTSE 100 companies that report on employee engagement. Almost 90% of companies researched had equal opportunities policies but only 52% mentioned specific actions taken. Nita Clarke, co-author of government-commissioned report Engaging for Success, says: "It's amazing how little attention the investment community pays to the fact that employee engagement has a real impact on medium- and long-term company performance." Having procedures in place to engage with staff and report on results is not the same as having a genuinely good workplace culture.
|
Congratulations, you're engaged! And the "ring" is the satisfaction employees receive from a sense of personal attachment to their work and the motivation to give their best to help the company succeed. Proven benefits of engaged employees to the organization are better personal, group and company performance in the areas of staff retention, productivity and customer loyalty. Good managers work hard to understand employees' needs, values and motivators while senior managers show genuine interest in employees' well-being. Integrating communication, safe and aesthetically pleasing work space as well as informal recognition can increase employee engagement at any level.
|
Is there an equation for happiness? Let's cut to the chase. In the workplace, employees want the satisfaction that comes from having increased input as to how to do their jobs to add more value to the organization. Employers want their employees to be more engaged within adherence to standards, rules, procedures and deadlines. Its the old employee engagement vs, bureaucratic control dilemma. The answer: collaboration. Employees can start by focusing on their own behaviors. Employers can start by respecting that the person doing the job knows the most about how to do it well and follow their lead. The best teams make sure everyone can succeed and the key is collaboration.
|
Unintended consequences. This is the term Denise Bleau uses to describe the abuses that sometimes befall employers when individuals have sought to use the ADA (American Disabilities Act) as a weapon to challenge their otherwise proper termination of employment. Unfortunately there are people who try to avoid hard work and taking responsibility for their own behavior. Ms Bleau, a partner with Ward, Damon, Posner, Pheterson & Bleau, focusing on employment matters, including ADA compliance and related litigation, recalls instances where employers charged with discrimination were not even aware of the alleged "disability" before making their employment decisions, or of cases settled that could have won at trial, but at too great a cost and risk. Employers, employees, lawmakers and community activists must continue to work together to ensure everyone a fair opportunity without unduly taking advantage of businesses acting in good faith.
|
Safety comes in at number 3! According to a study funded by CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training, bricklayers have the highest rate of back injuries and time away from work and mason tenders have the highest rate of overexertion injuries in the construction industry. Jennifer Hess, Ph.D. and lead author of the journal article reported in the August issue of the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, conducted a national telephone survey of 183 masonry contractors, representing 16 states in four regions. The survey helped confirm and document findings of regional differences that may be preventing standardized safety or use of best practice methods. Researchers found that the main advantage driving use of an innovation was time savings, followed closely by increased productivity. Increasing safety usually ranked third (except in two-person lift teams). The study shows more effective dissemination of information on best practices can lead to greater utilization, improving productivity and worker safety.
|
Secretary of the Treasury Timothy Geithner said that Social Security benefit payments are expected to “exceed tax revenue for the first time this year, six years earlier than was projected last year". He went on to say that “it is projected that tax and interest income will be sufficient to pay benefits through 2024, after which the Trust Fund will be drawn down until depleted in 2037. After 2037, it is expected that tax income will be sufficient to finance more than three quarters of scheduled benefits.” At the August 5 press conference. following the release of their financial status reports, the Boards of Trustees for Social Security and Medicare warned that while the outlook for Medicare has "improved substantially" because of program changes made in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act as amended by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, the outlook for Social Security is "little changed" from last year, with the short term outlook "worsened by a deeper recession than was projected last year." It was during the press briefing August 5th, that Geithner made his remarks.
|
Women in the workforce proceed WISE-ly. WISE is the acronym for Women in Safety Engineering and is the brainchild of American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE). The idea? To address as a networking group, the issues and opportunities specific to women in the safety profession. Kelly Bernish, WISE chair, says the group also wants to bring to the forefront challenges facing female workers in general. Biological and physiological differences between genders of workers have health and safety consequences. With women accounting for nearly half of the workforce in Canada, the U.S. and the U.K., health and safety issues and challenges facing women in the workplace have gained more prominence and it is encouraging to see that industry is responding positively.
|
It's all in the numbers. A three-year study conducted at a health system in Minneapolis, after the implementation of a comprehensive worksite wellness program, found that health risks decreased and because of reduced health care costs, absenteeism and worker's compensation claims each year of the program, savings increased. For every $1 an employer invests in a work site wellness program, $5.93 is saved in medical costs, absenteeism and workers compensation. Mary Claypool, chair of the Central Coast Visiting Nurses Association & Hospice (VNA) & executive director of the Monterey County Business Council, recognizes and promotes the value of developing wellness programs especially because of the additional stressors due to the state of the economy. Successful employers realize their employees are their greatest asset. Developing wellness programs ensure their employees are working in a safe and healthy environment which helps keep productivity high while keeping employers' health costs down.
|
You say təˈmātō, I say təˈmätō. People from different cultures not only speak differently, they also think about work in different ways, and several companies are expanding their approach to business and management styles accordingly to help people work together better. According to a new study, co-written by Cristina B. Gibson, of the University of Western Australia, and Dana M. McDaniel, of the University of California, Irvine, questioning assumptions and promoting cross-cultural perspective boosts workplace teamwork.
|
According to a presidential memorandum outlining a new 4 year initiative to be lead by the Secretary of Labor, measuring governmentwide and agency-level performance and an annual report to the president is to be implemented to combat the high number of workers' compensation claims logged by federal government employees each year. The initiative called Protecting Our Workers and Ensuring Reemployment (POWER) will extend current job-safety efforts by setting more aggressive targets, encouraging review of data and prioritizing safety and health management programs that have worked in the past.
|
The Hartford's 2010 Benefit Landscape Study surveyed 1,000 full-time workers in April about the economy's impact or work and home life. 37% of consumers said they feel they have experienced 'severe' financial impact due to the recession. Nearly one in four of those surveyed said they have additional work or an increased workload. When asked how stress is impacting their work environment, respondents' top answer was having less patience with co-workers followed by taking longer to complete work or having to take work home to finish. Ron Gendreau, executive vice president, The Hartford Group Benefits, outlined the importance of managing employees; absences appropriately. An integrated approach helps employees boost productivity while lowering costs. Gendreau encouraged employers to help their workforce understand the value of benefits, such as disability and life insurance.
|
Forming, Storming, Norming and Performing. How long has it been since you've visited team building concepts? A survey done recently by Robert Half found that chief financial officers thought the greatest lesson they learned during the recession was the importance of office morale. Most everyone would agree that low morale means feeling not engaged and that leaders set the tone. Successful leaders are comfortable with transparencies and create a strong foundation of trust and respect; show appreciation and listen so people feel heard, instilling a feeling of value, and pay attention to the needs and workloads of the most productive employees, making necessary adjustments for support or redistribution of assignments. A re-visit of how to keep morale healthy puts you on the winning team.
|
If you see something, say something. This advice from Larry Barton, an expert in workplace violence who leads seminars for the FBI. An average of three people are murdered at work each day in the U.S. but Barton says of the 1,800 cases he has reviewed over 26 years that there were signals 71% of the time. These signals may include; drug and alcohol abuse, employees who are rigid, inflexible or unwilling to take feedback from supervisors or coworkers , or someone who is unable to get along with others.
|
Gee, we wouldn't be here without one. Mothers take a hit in the workplace like no other. Once women step away from the workforce to raise their kids or provide other care for their families, find their careers suffer in terms of pay and promotions, so writes David Leonhardt in the New York Times. Mr Leonhardt suggests looking to professions where highly skilled women have been able to change the culture. Although many forward thinking companies have adapted part-time or working from home opportunities, many believe that 8-6 face time is still the way to go. "Things like part-time work and telecommuting would help many caregivers and aren't typically expensive for employers," Mr Leonhardt writes, "so in my opinion, they're worth fighting for."
|
It's risky business. Work practices can lead to reduced life expectancy and poorer physical and mental health status and yet when we talk about a company's sustainability we're usually referring to the physical environment. Jeffrey Pfeffer, from Stanford University in California, says that approach is too narrow and companies should be thinking about human sustainability. The founder of the Queensland-based Work Life Balance Foundation, Dr Paul Lanthois concurs. "Companies need to start seeing worker sustainability as a viable business model," he says. Studies support strong evidence linking organizational practices with well-being and even the length of the lifespan. Excessive overtime, lower incomes and high job demands that workers can't control are central identifiers of risky work practices.
|
Technology is increasingly imposing on working peoples' lives when they are on holiday, reports Adelaide Now, resulting in employees returning more stressed than when they left. UniSA Centre for Work + Life director Professor Barbara Pocock said, "Not taking a holiday is not good for you (and) it's not good for the employer because it makes you less productive." Despite the benefits of holidays for workers, one-third of polled workers worked while on holidays, 80 per cent "frequently" responded to emails and 50 per cent took calls. Heath Kearns from Flinders University said, "The internet in part has meant the boundaries between holiday and work are more blurred."
|
A new study has found that seven hours is the magic number for sleep, reports ABC News. Researchers at West Virginia University have found that people who sleep more or fewer than seven hours a day increase their risk of cardiovascular disease, angina, coronary heart disease, heart attack and stroke. Participants in the study who slept nine hours or more a day were one-and-a-half times more likely than seven hour sleepers to develop cardiovascular disease. Adults under 60 years of age who slept five or less hours a night increased their risk of cardiovascular disease more than threefold.
|
A new study has found that obese employees cost an additional US$460 to $2,500 annually, through work absences and extra medical costs, Medical News Today reports. The report, published in the American Journal of Health Promotion, tracked over 20,000 full-time workers aged between 18 and 64. They found that obesity costs companies with over 1,000 employees a total of US$285,000 per year. Researchers commented that a more "concentrated effort" would be required to combat the problem, compated to mere "workplace wellness programs (that) aren't going to have much effect on people who are already 100-plus pounds overweight."
|
Dr. Patrick Hudson, who set out as a plastic surgeon, is now working as a psychotherapist, one of an increasing number of mental health resources for New Mexico doctors. Many doctors struggle greatly to balance their work and home lives suffering extreme stress, while facing a number of deterrents to seeking help. Male doctors are 1.4 times as likely to commit suicide as other men, and female doctors are 2.3 time as likely to do so as other women according to a 2004 analysis in the American Journal of Psychiatry.
The twin pitfalls of being a doctor are a poor work-life balance and perfectionism, says Dr. William H. Brady, medical director of employee and occupational health services for Presbyterian Healthcare Services. "The culture of medicine is to be perfect at all times," he says, so Brady keeps his "Physician Wellness" coaching clients confidential. Dr. Hudson emphasizes that doctors are no more or less susceptible to mental illness than anyone else but tend not to seek help until problems manifest in ways like suicidal thoughts, marital strife or drug abuse. The good news is that therapy benefits almost everyone.
|
Pay now or pay later. That seems to be the upshot of employers who are facing the impact of stress on the workplace. Barry Hall, Buck Consultants' principal says, "Employers increasingly realize they must address the rising tide of employee stress, and not just to improve employee's well-being. Those who ignore stress will take a hit to their bottom line, in higher costs and lower productivity." In a published report by Buck, figures indicate that 46 percent of employers have looked into implementing work-life balance support programs.
|
Integrity matters. Jill Geisler, Poynter Group's Leadership and Management Group head, believes one of the most genuine rewards of management is the ability to preserve a positive workplace culture. To build a strong ethical workplace culture it helps to be aware of the ethical traps leaders should avoid. Put your standards into practice. Know the value of having a code of ethics and share the understanding for balance. Build strong teams to create critical thinking skills. Apply your standards with everyone playing by the same rules - top to bottom. Know that people make mistakes. Investigate the reasons and take ownership for what's yours; then fix what's broken. Opportunity must be managed with value to avoid ethical shortcuts. Great bosses inspire those around them to act with integrity, and together with staff, they build a strong ethical culture.
|
Let's plant a new idea. Less anxiety, depression and anger. Less fatigue and confusion. Sound like the positive stress reduction you'd like in your workplace? The University of Technology, Sydney found reductions of up to 58 percent in negative mood states and feelings of stress by people with plants in their office. Well beyond the benefits of air quality, plants produced a significant difference in scores for participants in a three year study, versus those without. Never underestimate the nurture of Nature.
|
Employees in UK public sector jobs and their private sector peers should be enabled to work one day a fortnight from home, a government minister has stated.
Calling on the nation's employers to step up their flexible working commitments, transport minister Norman Baker has argued that such a practice would benefit both workers and their bosses.
|
Is happiness related to productivity? After watching a humorous film, 10 study student volunteers who reported higher happiness levels afterward, did substantially better on a 10 minute math quiz. Andrew Oswald, professor of economics at Warwick Business School, who led the research, said the results showed a clear relationship between mood and work efficiency – a discovery which could have profound implications for business leaders. Conversely, workers who reported being in a sour mood were 10 percent less productive than average.
|
Workplace boredom can be as stressful and damaging as career uncertainty or demands for overwork. Three primary reasons for boredom in the workplace: feeling disconnected, feeling invisible, and lack of space. There are steps you can take toward your own liberation. Seeing your situation with a clear eye will help you step outside of your own narrow vantage point and direct your energy towards finding a better situation. List jobs or situations from the past where you felt you were at your best. Scope out opportunities for stimulation or greater challenge. Meet with your boss and explain your desire to stretch in a new direction. Open yourself up to a course, seminar or workshop, or a volunteer opportunity to enhance your existing skills or build new ones. Mesh the information and feedback to identify what energizes you and compare that with your current situation. With heightened awareness you are better equipped to deal with boredom but also working toward a successful career with people. organizations and a culture that can stimulate and challenge you.
|
Obesity: a gateway condition. Unfortunately the gateway can lead to heart disease, diabetes and hypertension. A staggering two thirds of Americans are obese or overweight today. And as their health goes, so goes that of their employers. Private employers are hit with an estimated $45 billion a year in medical expenditures and work loss, according to a 2008 report by the Conference Board (the latest report available). At Advocate Health Care, one of the largest health care providers in the Midwest, obesity cost nearly $6 million in lost productivity last year alone. That’s six times as much as the costs attributed to smoking. Major corporations are taking action, they can't afford not to. Businesses are reluctant to locate to areas where workplace pools are unhealthy. More companies are offering proactive wellness programs. Use of even more draconian measures such as listing calorie counts on cafeteria menus is being suggested. It worked in NY city when Mayor Bloomberg forced local restaurants to do it. It's all about making healthier choices and creates a win/win for everyone.
|
“70% of all illness, both physical and mental, is linked to stress.” - U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services. Enter Stephan Bodian, licensed psychotherapist, meditation teacher and internationally known, bestselling author of Meditation For Dummies®, who has announced the release of "Freedom from Stress". This web-based program offers five effective, proven strategies for eliminating stress and enhancing overall well-being. With workplace stress costing more than $300 billion a year in health care, missed work, and stress-management programs, according to the American Institute of Stress, can anyone underestimate or downplay the importance of stress management?
|
Private company workers' comp - to be or not to be? It's pretty likely that an initiative ballot to allow private workers' comp insurers will go to a vote in Washington State in November if 345,000 signatories have their way. Washington is one of the few states that block private insurers of workers' comp coverage. "It's important to have competition," said Erin Shannon, a spokeswoman with the Building Industry Association of Washington, which has led a coalition of business groups in support of the initiative. "Our state monopoly has resulted in a system that's broken." Advocates contend the practice of directly taxing employees' for a portion of their compensation insurance would move the expense to the employer, but savings seen from market competition will ultimately make the insurance less expensive for business.
|
This may not be the kind of raise you've been waiting for... Social Security is under a lot of scrutiny these days and no wonder considering the current state of the economy. Raising the retirement age is only one of many considerations. But on the backs of our seniors isn't the place we should be starting, says Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House. Her suggestions were, reduce spending, tighten the belt and look at entitlements, to name a few. Larry Mishel weighs in showing that life expectancy and retirement age aren't keeping pace with each other. That affluent individuals who work in knowledge-oriented industries have an elevated life expectancy in relation to people who work outdoors or in more manual labor jobs, may suggest raising the FICA cap and could lead to tax avoidance. Tax issues,
higher levels of disability and age discrimination are all factors that must be examined if people are going to be expected to work longer.
|
Sometimes all it takes is a little gas. Quik Trip Corporation and the Justice Department have reached an amicable agreement, without litigation, regarding accessibility for disabled individuals under Title III of the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act). Included in the agreement is a $1.5 million compensatory damages fund for individuals who were victims of disability discrimination. The corporation, which operates 550 gas stations, convenience stores, travel centers and truck stops, has affirmed its commitment to serving disabled individuals and to taking the necessary actions to achieve ADA compliance to make all of its stores accessible.
|
Gimme a break! 39% of employers' prime aim is to foster a highly productive team, while maximum productivity per head count is a priority for 31% of bosses. On the other hand, nearly half of all employees admit to feeling stressed at work. These highlights are from the insurer's annual Health of the Workplace survey. The good news is that many employers recognize the need to focus on employees' well-being and admit they could do more to improve a balance with staff's work/life. Last month, research by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy highlighted that bad habits such as not taking sufficient breaks can be damaging to workers' health.
|
Where is that first-aid kit again? A survey on occupational health and safety among public sector, private sector and those employed by public entities, shows that measures to avoid a repeat of a workplace accident were only taken 32 percent of the time. This in spite of three-quarters of the 37 percent of employees having had accidents reporting it to their superiors. The survey by Union Maddiema Magħqudin, showed a slight majority of workers in public entities in the private sector who said they had been trained on health and safety procedures, while only 31 percent of public sector workers had. 69 percent knew where the first-aid kit was but only 43 percent knew who the first-aid assigned personnel were.
|
Would you refute the commute? The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) has at its heart the obligation of employers to provide reasonable accommodations to help disabled employees perform the essential functions of the job. Take the recent case of an employee requesting a shift change due to partial blindness making her nightly commute dangerous. Buses were not an option as they stopped running at 6 p.m. Did her employer have to agree to move the employee to a different shift? Or, would it be unfair to the other employees? What's your call? Please click on the title above and all will be revealed.
|
For better or for worse. We're not talking marriage vows here but employee well-being and your business' bottom line. Organizations investing in their employees' well-being reap significant reductions in costs and increases in value over time. People who have thriving well-being have significantly fewer sick days, are likely to be more engaged in the workplace, and thus more productive and cost-effective. As individuals go, so go their workplace. But only 8% of employees strongly agree that they have higher overall well-being because of their employers.
|
Have you had your 6 hours today? Introvert? Extrovert? Makes no difference - each of us need about 6 hours each day of social interaction. It's part of the reason blocking Facebook and Twitter at work may prove detrimental. That's just one finding from a new book, Wellbeing: The Five Essential Elements, to be released later this month. The book draws upon Gallup Consulting research from more than 150 countries. According to Allan Watkinson, Gallup Consulting engagement manager, 'It scares employers that people are going to be sociable and not productive. However, we found that if you can promote that tool and use it in an effective way, actually you are going to get higher productivity.' Research indicates that employees with low engagement and low well-being can quickly drag down a group's performance.
|
Chemo drugs an agent of death? While chemotherapy agents are powerful drugs that have saved hundreds of thousands of patients' lives, those who handle them regularly, pharmacists, nurses, even doctors, have been getting sick, and no on-the-job safeguards are required despite multiple studies that indicate the drugs actually may cause cancers. Accidental spills, sprays and punctures, and lack of safety practices, which contaminate a variety of surfaces have put chemo agents on outsides of drug vials, floors, countertops, keyboards, garbage cans and doorknobs. Bill Borwegen, occupational health and safety director for Service Employees International Union (SEIU), the labor union that represents nurses nationally said, "We are concerned how they are handled. There's such a dearth of info on how to sample these agents. People don't know how to clean surfaces."
While there is much to be done, some larger academic cancer-treatment centers have taken precautions that include use of closed-system technology devises (CSTDs) to protect workers from exposure. Even the use of special gowns, gloves and sleeves can be used as a deterrent to spreading chemo around.
As the ranks of cancer patients are projected to climb by 50 percent in the next decade, and chemo drugs have found wider treatment applications, e.g. arthritis, MS and in veterinary clinics, more people will be required to prepare and deliver treatment. Sue Crump, who spent 23 years mixing chemo as a pharmacist, said shortly before her death last September from pancreatic cancer, "Safety needs to be revisited. People don't take this seriously enough."
|
Contemplation room comes to the cop shop. In a bid to reduce stress and depression on the heels of 1,112 days of absence, Cambridgeshire, UK now has a contemplation room in its headquarters so officers can "pray and have a quiet moment". Although the force has an occupational health unit offering a wide range of services, facing armed thugs, cleaning up road crashes and the daily grind of catching criminals takes its toll on officers' mental health.
|
Don't take it personally! In reviewing your request for Social Security Disability coverage, the people who review your claim have certain information to find. If they don't find it, there is no choice but to deny your claim. In most areas there is a Reconsideration appeal. Use the denial letter to determine if any documentation is missing. Call your SS office and make an appointment to review your file so you can see exactly which records were received and which forms are required for the appeal. When preparing your Reconsideration appeal, list your impairments and records to show how your symptoms prevent you from working. Provide a cover letter outlining the records you are submitting and how they support your disability claim. Above all, be timely; there is a 65 day window - including 5 days for mailing - to file your appeal.
In some areas, the Reconsideration stage is eliminated. Instead a Social Security Representative will contact you and give you an opportunity to add additional documentation before official denial.
|
Social Security - or is it? 75-year-old Social Security seems to have a case of the birthday blues and with good reason. The National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform, established by Barack Obama to help create a balanced budget by 2015 is eyeing SS as a potential source of revenue despite the system's projected future shortfall. Weakening Social Security would leave impoverished many who are already economically vulnerable -- in particular, but not exclusively, 54 percent of unmarried elderly African Americans and the 62 percent of unmarried elderly Latinos who rely on Social Security benefits for 90 percent or more of their income. Americans want to strengthen the Social Security system and do not want its revenues used to balance the federal budget. The best course is to seek advice and help from others - but to make changes with great care. For too many Americans, Social Security is an economic lifeline, especially to the neediest among us and tampering with it will not achieve a lasting balanced budget.
|
Vigor: effort, energy and enthusiasm; one of the primary elements of an engaged employee according to psychologist Wilmar Schaufeli of Utrecht University in the Netherlands, who is calling for the development of a branch of positive psychology focused on workplace mental health. At the 5th European Conference on Positive Psychology, held last week in Copenhagen, Denmark, Professor Schaufeli defined employee engagement as a "positive motivational state characterized by vigor, dedication, and absorption." Strategies employers can take to begin developing a positive workplace culture include, regular monitoring of levels of engagement, goal-setting and coaching while taking the emphasis off of problems. Engaged employees take fewer sick days, are more motivated, less likely to leave or be fired and make customers happy.
|
Culture isn't a night at the opera. More and more organizations are recognizing the need of healthy workplace cultures as a direct impact to success. With trends of globalization, changing work force demographics and the increasing cost of skilled workers, training and retaining talented employees is becoming a singular management concern. Competitive advantages are provided by healthy, productive and loyal employees and organizations who can shift investment emphasis from failure costs to one of detection and prevention, ensures their employees' well-being and ultimately benefits the bottom line. Creating and maintaining active engagement toward a positive health shift in the culture of employees is key but may not happen overnight. Communication, leadership from the top and recognition and rewards can inspire employees to buy in to a healthy culture. When healthy cultures support the principles of changing behavior rather than simply providing information, and have active participation by at least 60 percent of employees, the results are clearly visible.
|
Celebrate! The ADA turns 20! The Americans with Disabilities Act has come a long way but people with disabilities say more work still needs to be done. Harley Engelman, who has age related macular degeneration, enjoys doing marketing and business relations for the vocational rehabilitation division of the Dept. of Human Services. He is assisted by a bigger computer screen with larger print. Engelman says the younger generation is helping change the perception of people with disabilities. He thinks its important to keep the momentum going and acknowledges improvements like Increased accessibility through handicap parking and electronic doors as just a few of the ways that ADA has helped accommodate disabled employees.
|
Self-insured companies in Pennsylvania have had access to expert claims management with Third Party Administrator, WorkPartners, who since 1997, has been providing organizations with the expertise they need to develop, manage and maintain effective health and productivity strategies. With the introduction of a Commercial Workers' Compensation product, "Fully-insured employers in Pennsylvania can have the same type of expert claims management along with our proven track record in managing workers' compensation and overall health and productivity in the workplace," said David M. Weir, President of WorkPartners. Focused on providing the best possible care for their organizations' employees, WorkPartners' robust medical network and return to work and vocational experts, offer a strategic approach to absence management yielding better care and better outcomes.
|
Social security takes work. Technical denials (non-medical reasons) among disability applications reported by the Social Security Administration has grown from a little over 100,000 in 1999 to more than 650,000 in 2007. Hundreds of thousands of people are denied disability benefits each year because they lack the work history needed for eligibility, according to Allsup, a nationwide provider of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) representation and Medicare plan selection services. The most common reason for technical denials, "insufficient number of recent work credits." SSA follows a five-step process of evaluation and decisions are based on medical documentation, age and work history, among other factors. So although you may have a disability, you must have worked long enough and recently enough to be eligible.
|
Two heads are better than one. The International Association of Industrial Accident Boards and Commissions (IAIABC), the leading organization representing the government agencies that administer workers’ compensation systems, and the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (ACOEM), the leading organization representing the physicians who specialize in work-related illness and injury, have announced their partnership and are advocating for improvements to workers' compensation outcomes. Efforts to ensure better medical care with reduced time-off the job and doing so in a cost-effective manner will realign incentives within the system that now creates unnecessary costs and delays, jeopardizes employment and ultimately effects the long-term health and productivity of the American worker. IAIABC Executive Director Greg Krohm said, “Ensuring that injured workers receive high-quality medical care and are returned to productive work with a minimum of functional loss is at the core of both of our organizations’ fundamental mission and values."
|
Sick Leave may actually be saying "Leave me alone". Reports of long-term "Off Duty Sick", as long as up to seven years, suggests that the Mounties' workplace culture is badly in need of repair. The Vancouver Sun, citing a January 2009 internal RCMP report, says "If trust is the glue that binds organizations then something is not sticking at the RCMP." Concerns ranged from supervisors simply not doing their job to incidents of blatant sexual harassment. In May, The Sun reported details of another RCMP report that found six in ten B. C. RCMP employees had considered quitting within the last six months and one in four had been harassed or tormented within the last year, most commonly by a direct supervisor.
|
What do wood dust, grain dust, animal dander, fungi, diisocyanates and other chemicals have in common? They are the most common irritants leading to work-related asthma. Symptoms to the sufferer may include chest tightness, wheezing, and shortness of breath, the same symptoms as non-occupational asthma. Treatment is basically the same for both types and occupational asthma is reversible if diagnosis and treatment occur early enough. According to the World Health Organization, between 2 and 20 percent of all asthma rates in industrialized nations are cases of occupational asthma.
|
Yes Virginia, RTW programs do work! In the study of the effectiveness of 5 regional health system hospitals, utilizing RTW programs on Short Term Disability claims, a 26 percent savings on expenditures was achieved. The study, conducted by OCI, a Data Integration and Software Services provider, measured a pilot program activated less than 5 years earlier before the employer implemented it across the entire organization. The analysis, compared a study group with a control group, who did not participate in RTW, measuring Lost Work Days 12 months prior against the 12 months following implementation. The RTW program significantly reduced STD claims and durations, resulting in an estimated annual cost savings of over $650,000. Cost of running the RTW program, including salaries and admin fees, $74,000.
|
C'mon now, focus! Mental health professionals estimate that 9 million adults in the US have ADHD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. While widely accepted as a disorder occurring primarily in children, difficulty paying attention, easy distraction, trouble finishing paperwork, etc., can cause workers with the disorder real problems at work, and possibly even get them fired. Michele Novotni, a psychologist and coach who specializes in workers with ADHD, says the disorder is tremendously undiagnosed in adults..." Many adult ADHD sufferers who are diagnosed, use medication to help them control their symptoms, but learning to cope in the workplace often also takes coaching, Novotni said. “Pills aren’t skills.”
|
Blistering increases for volunteer fire fighters. In West Virginia 80 percent of emergency calls statewide are handled by volunteer fire departments. So although members of the Kanawha County Commission agreed to pick up the tab for massive increases in Workers' Comp premiums for the county's volunteer fire fighters, House Speaker Richard Thompson told county officials he would push for a 60-day stay on enacting the new premiums while he meets with Gov. Joe Manchin to figure out how to pay. Thompson, fearing failure to meet the premium increase (set to double in his home county) will force cash-strapped departments all over the state to shut down. Departments will continue to pay their current premiums, with the county making up the difference between them and the increase.
|
In the past 50 years the number of people living outside their country of birth has doubled to 200 million. In the US, Hispanic and foreign-born workers in general, disproportionately hold down the more strenuous and high risk jobs while access to public health and understanding of job safety standards do not reflect the work site danger they face. Overall, immigrants are twice as likely to die of a work-related injury, with non-fatal injuries following a similar trend. OSHA has recently told businesses they are responsible for communicating workplace dangers in language and level best understood by workers. The University of California at Berkeley has come up with recommendations to improve the occupational health of foreign-born workers. In California, Hispanics represent 90 percent of the farming work force. As Bruce Goldstein of Farmworker Justice said at the MPI event on worker safety on the fields, there is a “lack of modern practices in farm labor.”
|
"No news is good news." If you subscribe to that adage, knowing the 2009 Disability Study has been released may suggest no good news. You decide. While most claims payers have found that the recession has not effected claims in any significant way, the overall rate of disability is increasing among both men and women workers while the SSDI claim approval rate continues to decline. There was a slight increase in claim payments in 2009 over 2008. The majority of claim payments were not work related and the majority of claimants were over age 60, divided equally between women and men. Fewer new claims were reported in 2009, reflecting the decrease in employed individuals. The economy has created an awareness on the part of employees to save and plan for possible financial loss due to disability.
|
"In my 42 years of experience in public safety labor I've never observed a labor/management Alternative Dispute Resolution program that will help the American worker and the business community like the ADR concept developed by Broadspire and Workers Compensation Solutions," said Don Novey, executive director, California Peace Officers Memorial Foundation. Broadspire, a leading third party administrator, working in conjunction with Workers Compensation Solutions, a leading ADR consulting firm, has earned high praise leveraging key legislation and employing nurse advocates to assist injured workers through a structured claims process. Significant cost savings, a reduction in length of claims and litigation rates as well as enhanced medical delivery, are all the result of collectively bargained workers compensation.
|
What came first, the stress or overtime? Work three hours beyond “the normal, seven-hour day” and you may raise your chances of heart attack or angina by 60 percent. The finding, published in the European Heart Journal, isn't sure what causes the link: did overtime cause anxiety, depression and heart disease - or did workers start out that way to begin with? The data came from the Whitehall II study, a long-term investigation into the health of more than 10,000 London office workers who have been tracked since 1985.
|
According to the Joint Commission (JACHO), a US hospital accreditation organization, of roughly 5,000 malpractice patient deaths or severe injury cases, 70 percent were caused by poor communication between staff members. A leading cause of poor communication? Workplace bullying. Intimidation can cause lack of contributing and collaborating with the medical team possibly leading to misdiagnosis and untreated life threatening illness.
Long accepted by many medical professionals, few medical personnel have not either been a target of bullying in the workplace or personally witnessed someone who was. In 2009 JACHO had enough and started requiring all accredited hospitals to issue a code of conduct - prevention and remedy guidelines aimed at workplace bullying.
|
Building a bridge to harmony in the workplace is the dream of Gwen Holt, counselor and teacher. Through the effective communication skills of team building, Holt believes her interactive and fun workshops teach the skills to handle conflicts, the techniques and methods to apply them, and can leave everyone happier and more productive.
|
New data shows California’s workers’ compensation premium volume last year declined for the fifth year in a row. The amount that employers pay to insurers for mandatory coverage for workers injured on the job shrunk by nearly 10 percent in 2009, the California Workers’ Compensation Institute reports. Premium has dropped in part because fewer Californians are working — unemployment is 12.6 percent. In addition, the institute noted, the number of claims being filed has decreased, and insurers have reduced rates following system reforms between 2002 and 2004. When all claims are eventually tallied for 2009, workers’ comp insurers are expected to pay $1.08 for claims and expenses for every dollar of premium they collected that year.
|
Matrix hits the bulls-eye with new Dart puppet. In celebration of the 20th anniversary of the passage of the American’s With Disabilities Act (ADA), a giant puppet of Justin Dart, a pioneer of the ADA, will take to the streets of Detroit for the U.S. Social Forum on June 22, 2010. It will then head to Chicago for the Seventh Annual Disability Pride Parade on July 24, 2010 to help raise awareness for the rights of people with disabilities. Matrix Theatre Company uses the transformative power of theatre to change lives. “It’s time that disability is recognized as a natural and beautiful part of human diversity.” said Rich Feldman, Matrix partner and project co-organizer. Matrix goal is to tour the puppet throughout the country this summer.
|
Findings from a new study, published online May 4 in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, found that hospital staffers who worked in the most crowded wards were twice as likely to take sick leave for depression as staff who worked in wards with "optimal" numbers of patients. The possibility that chronic stress due to a heavy workload might impair some hospital workers' mental health, lead researcher Dr. Marianna Virtanen, of the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health in Helsinki, told Reuters Health in an e-mail. The study linked findings from 16 hospitals over a two-year period.
|
Research conducted by law and psychology professor Jennifer Robbennolt suggests that the humble apology may play a huge role in settling cases and minimising damages. Medical News Today quoted Robbennolt saying apologies can be psychologically powerful, fulfilling some of the needs of the claimant that precipitated the legal suit in the first place, ultimately lesening their perceived need for financial reimbursement.
|
The practice of mindfulness meditation has been proven to reduce pain, according to a study reported by Medical News Today. It was found that people who meditate regularly find pain less unpleasant because their brains anticipate the pain less. Researchers suggested that meditation could be the way to deal with the epidemic of chronic pain conditions, including arthritis: "40% of people who suffer from chronic pain report inadequate management of their pain problem."
|
You may not be alone. Among the myriad of recent coffee-research news rebounding around the world, a new study claims that coffee doesn't make you more alert. Medical News Today refers to a study published in the 2nd June edition of Neuropsychopharmacology, that says while frequent coffee drinkers may feel reinvigorated by coffee, the reversal of their caffeine withdrawl symptoms meant that it was actually only "bringing them back to normal."
|
Social Security celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2010 and is received by more than 52.5 million Americans. In a new effort to gather stories about the importance of Social Security, Barbara Burt, executive director for the Frances Perkins Center, a nonprofit organization, is leading the project as part of its mission to honor and learn from Frances Perkins, U.S. secretary of labor for Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Social Security is the major source of income for most of the elderly but The Social Security Stories Project seeks to create a full picture of the importance of Social Security to celebrate and share with all U.S. citizens, and the world.
|
Presenteeism has nothing to do with gift giving. Quite the contrary, according to think-tank The Work Foundation, in a report published in April in conjunction with health provider Axa PPP. The Work Foundation argued that the cost of presenteeism could match or account for one-and-a-half times more working time lost than the estimated $18bn annual cost of sickness absence. The report also argued sickness presence was a much more prevalent malaise than sickness absence as well as simply being a drain on productivity and competitiveness - both key issues for employers. Yet another challenge for HR, argues Sayeed Khan, chief medical adviser at manufacturers' organization EEF, is "how ill is ill" when we are talking about sickness presence. And there is a strong argument for HR to be taking a more innovative approach to health and well-being and not getting so overly focused on absence and attendance, argues Ian Clabby, employee engagement manager at Axa PPP. What employers need to be doing, advises the Work Foundation report's lead author Katherine Ashby, is exploring the reasons behind sickness presence, particularly any work-related "triggers" that could lead to sickness presence becoming more prevalent.
|
It would appear Kansas City is raising more than beef these days. The MO Dept. of Labor and Indus. Relations noted a big increase in a particular reason for workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance claims: stress in office environments. To offset this troubling increase, the department’s long-offered safety seminars began a program Thursday in Kansas City focused on deterring what might be called cubicle stress. Said department spokeswoman Amy Susan, prevention efforts are worthwhile; “We’re not just trying to prevent high-hazard safety concerns,” Susan said. “We’re trying to reduce stress-related separations.”
|
"Out of joint" may mean "out of work". Research by The Hartford Financial Services Group Inc., shows workers framework is showing wear and tear. The average length of time that an employee was out of work due to a musculoskeletal disorder is approximately 10 weeks, according the the Hartford's claims analysis. Ron Gendreau, executive vice president of the Hartford's Group Benefits Division explained, "We hope to raise awareness now, during Disability Insurance Awareness Month, about the importance of taking steps to protect the foundation of your physical and financial well-being." Gendreau offered employees some tips on how to help boost their financial fitness as well as providing employers with ways to help protect the backbone of their business.
|
The Americans with Disabilities Act ensures that the civil rights of citizens with disabilities are protected and perserved. In Clinton, Tennessee this week, Louise McKown, Leroy Gilliam and Anderson County Commissioner Jerry Creasey, all of Oak Ridge, were recognized by the Anderson County Commission for bringing compliance mandates to the forefront in Anderson County. The Commission approved a resolution honoring the 20th anniversary of the ADA that President George H. Bush signed into law on July 26, 1990. The resolution also honors the efforts of McKown, Gilliam and Creasey.
|
Research conducted in the past decade has shown that employee engagement has declined significantly in most industries. Beyond that, various research studies have shown that there can be multiple factors influencing employee engagement. While no overwhelming evidence demonstrates cause-and-effect in business driven by employee engagement, there is increasing evidence that employee engagement strategies, that are incorporated into broader strategies of promoting employee well-being and manager-employee positive relationships, may hold greater promise to drive business results.
|
United Community Bank, after settling a Worker's Comp claim, later terminated the employee for poor performance. The U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Tennessee ruled that the employee could proceed with a suit against his former employer for disability discrimination, age discrimination, and workers'compensation retaliation because the agreement the employee signed to settle his workers' Comp Claim did not foreclose every potential claim he could bring against his employer. Settlements agreements need to use carefully selected language to negate future laibility related to event issues
|
Bus drivers for New York City Metropolitan Transportation Authority are taking extended leave over incidents in which they are spat on by irate customers, Workers' Comp Insider reports. 51 drivers took paid leave in 2009 after "spitting incidents", for an average of 64 days off work each with the longest being 191 days. While being spat on is a "physically and psychologically traumatic experience" for assaulted workers, Workers' Comp Insider questions Transit Union president John Samuelson's comments alluding to the fact that injured workerscan deem the extent of their leave and timeframe for return to work, rather than being informed and directed by medical advice.
|
Monash researchers have concluded that psychological factors such as pessimism and depression are major predictors of chronic pain in people who haven sustained an injury, Medical News Today reports. The study, published in American Pain Society's "The Journal of Pain" focused on people who had a range of non life-threatening injuries, many of which having happened in the workplace. It was found that "recovery expectations played a role" with those who believed they would not recover soon being nearly four times more likely to report pain-related diability after six months. "Symptoms of depression, anxiety or stress post-injury also were identified as strong independent predictors of pain-related work disability."
|
The Australian Government's new No Leave, No Life campaign uses workplace wellness as one of the top reasons why workers should take their accrued annual leave. The initiative maintains that lowering the level of accrued leave reduces sick and stress leave claims, lowers the level of accidents and increases motivation and productivity of workers. The initiative promotes "positive work/life balance" with fact sheets, research findings and toolkits for employers to implement healthier approaches to work leave.
|
When it comes to combating "shift-work disorder" - a dangerously higher incidence of workplace accident and injury due to worker fatigue, nothing works quite like caffeine. The New York Times reports that recent research has found caffeine reduces errors and improves performance on tasks involving memory, attention, perception, concept formation and reasoning.
|
The ongoing recession is having a negative effect on employees' mental health, Digital Journal reports. A survey by UK mental health charity Mind show that one in 10 people had to seek medical advice from their doctor, with seven per cent on anti-depressants. 50 per cent of those polled said their workplace was suffering with low morale and 30 per cent were working extra hours due to the recession. Mind says that mental illness costs the industry around £26 billion annually, but with improved management this figure could be reduced by £8 billion.
|
Retaining new recruits can be hard for companies, The Age Reports. There is a 30-40 per cent attrition rate for new workers, with the level of happiness dropping after 12 months without active engagement. "It may be nice giving fruit or a free breakfast, but you have to value staff in personal ways," says Meahan Callaghan, HR Director at SEEK. The article maintains that management practices often can't be seperated from culture, and that's why good leadership counts. John Asquith, retention adviser of TalentDrain said, "I think little notes of appreciation and chats with the boss are essential...when those are missing then the other factors become more important. These don't cost you."
|
New research suggests that healthy retirees "actually face higher health costs over their remaining lifetime then the unhealthy." Medical News Today reports on a study of the determinants of health care costs from age 65, conducted by the Center for Retirement Research, Boston College. The study found that for a couple turning 65 in 2009 in which one or both spouses suffer from a chronic disease, the cost of insurance premiums and nursing home care was $220,000, whereas for couples free of chronic disease at 65, the figure was higher at $260,000.
|
An 11-year study of 10,000 British public servants has found that people who work overtime have a 60 per cent higher risk of heart-related problems, reports ABC online. Researchers say "the risks for those who work just two more hours a day are significant." It was suggested that the heart disease may be associated with overtime because, "you don't have time to exercise and your diet may become unhealthy in time... You don't sleep enough and also it is possible that people who work long hours don't take care of themselves in terms of if they have some preliminary symptoms they might not go to see a doctor."
|
"Fit Notes" will now be issued by GPs to sick or injured British workers who have been out of work for longer than seven days, the BBC reports. Replacing the old "sick note", fit notes will still outline a worker's illness or injury but more importantly will put an emphasis on what they can still do in the workplace. The idea, conceived by recent Workplace Health and Wellbeing research in the UK, encourages employers to become actively involved in return to work for injured employees. "We know that keeping people in work helps their physical and mental wellbeing,&qu
|
