Occupational health management plays an increasingly important role in this day and age. Numerous companies have already implemented the theme at the management level.

The burdens of workers in the workplace are increasing, both physically and psychologically. A lot is demanded from workers: mobility, flexibility and lifelong learning. New technologies lead to the feeling of constant accessibility and availability. The pressure is steadily increasing. Often the boundaries between work and private life are blurred.

The result is an increased number of sick days. The resulting absenteeism of employees increasingly leads to a rethinking of employers. The topic of occupational health management is becoming more and more central. The health and well-being of workers should be promoted. The work environment, the work equipment, working hours and work organisation play an important role. Increasingly, the living situation of the employees is also considered in order to achieve a good work-life balance.

Especially for small and medium-sized enterprises, the following topics provide to get you started:

• Dealing with stress – relaxation courses
• Physical stress – back fitness
• Healthy diet – nutrition
• Smoke-free in operation – courses for tobacco cessation

The topic of health management can be introduced, for example, in team meetings to sensitize all staff and to gather ideas. What matters is how well the issues fit into the company and with the living situation of the employees. Focusing on initially a topic can help.

Lack of knowledge on occupational health promotion can be a hurdle for smaller companies. There are possibilities for the implementation, as well as advice by health insurance companies. There are contact around the subject. It also supports the health of the employees tax since January 1, 2008. Per year can invest payroll tax a company per employee up to 500 € for measures of health promotion. For the measures, there are certain requirements that can be viewed on the Internet site of the Federal Ministry of health. These include physical exercise programs, stress management and diet offers.

The benefits of good health management:

• Improving health in General
• Ensuring of performance of employees
• Increase the motivation and increasing identification with the company
• Increase productivity and quality
• Better perception of the company