Safety First: How Workplace Health and Safety Programs Can Keep You Healthy On and Off the Job

“A safe workplace is sound business,” according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). In today's business landscape, where employee well-being is more important than ever, workplace health and safety programs are not just commendable practices—they’re imperative.

These programs, guided by recommended OSHA practices, are not only designed to prevent workplace injuries and fatalities, but to cultivate an all-around healthy workforce.

Learn more about the importance of workplace health and safety programs and how they can benefit your health in and out of the workplace.

A proactive approach to workplace safety and health

“The cornerstone of workplace health and safety programs is their proactive nature,” said Aiysha Ansari, M.D., MSPH, a Board Certified physician in Occupational and Environmental Medicine at Inspira Medical Group Urgent Care and Occupational Health. Unlike traditional reactive approaches that address safety concerns after incidents occur, these recommended practices promote identifying and mitigating hazards before they result in harm. Dr. Ansari adds, “This shift in perspective not only minimizes potential injuries and illnesses, but also promotes an environment of wellness, encouraging employees to take care of their health even off the job so they can be as successful and safe as possible.”

Health benefits for all

Implementing safety and health programs is a multifaceted strategy that reaps a multitude of benefits for employers and employees alike. “Workplaces can even partner with health care systems to make sure their employees are keeping themselves fit for work and taking advantage of their health benefits,” said Dr. Ansari. These programs offer acute illness and injury management with follow-up care, a range of employee-based services and health education. “Employers and their health care partners can offer customized education on various topics, such as workers’ compensation education, injury prevention education or ergonomics and back safety education,” said Dr. Ansari.

 These programs also offer health services before employees even start the job, like pre-employment physical exams, fitness for duty evaluations or biometric screenings. “By offering resources and prioritizing health even before an employee starts a job, workplace health and safety programs help employers cultivate a healthier, more engaged workforce,” said Dr. Ansari. “They can keep employees healthier for longer and show that their employees are valued.”

Path to progress

Engaged, healthy employees are pivotal to the success of any organization, and workplace health and safety programs play a crucial role in fostering such engagement. By involving workers in these initiatives, businesses can empower employees to take ownership of their well-being, leading to a heightened sense of job satisfaction and commitment.

Learn more about Inspira Occupational Health or schedule an Occupational Health appointment today.