Why sustainable BGM is important

Sustainability is a key issue in many areas of a company - but how can it be implemented in occupational health management (OHM)? Sustainable health promotion means harmonising ecological, economic and social aspects in order to achieve long-term positive effects for companies and employees. Companies that implement sustainable OHM measures benefit from a better corporate image, greater employee loyalty and long-term cost savings.

Why is sustainability important?

In the past, health promotion often consisted of a health day, lectures or was often neglected. Neither the Health Day nor presentations in a monologue have a long-term effect on the health of employees. Although the information is important, it should only represent one part of health promotion. Many OHM managers have now recognised that sustainability in the form of long-term effects is the most important criterion when selecting OHM measures and services.

Sustainability in OHM - What does that mean in concrete terms?

A sustainable OHM goes beyond short-term health initiatives and focuses on measures that promote long-term changes in behaviour. These include resource-conserving health programmes, an environmentally conscious workplace design and the integration of sustainable principles into the day-to-day running of the company. The aim is to establish healthy habits that benefit both employees and the company. In the following section, we provide some practical examples to help you on your way.

Practical measures for sustainable health promotion

a) Environmentally friendly measures

• Sustainable mobility: Companies can provide incentives for environmentally friendly mobility, for example through bicycle leasing programmes, job tickets or the provision of bicycle parking spaces.
• Promoting outdoor exercise: Running events or outdoor training sessions can motivate employees to move more, while at the same time protecting the environment as no materials or equipment are required.
• Sustainable nutrition: A healthy and sustainable company canteen with regional, seasonal and organic products promotes both health and environmental protection. Other examples include regional and seasonal fruit baskets and local catering services for business meetings or one-day events.

b) Long-term behavioural changes and mindset shift

The aim of OHM should be to establish long-term, healthy habits among employees.

• Exercise programmes in everyday working lifeRegular active breaks, joint company runs or subsidised gym memberships motivate employees to exercise more in the long term.
• Ergonomic workplace designHeight-adjustable desks, ergonomic chairs or digital health coaches such as Isa and regular training on correct sitting posture prevent back problems. Companies can also integrate short mobility exercises into meetings.
• Regular health days and challengesThemed days with specialist presentations, health checks or interactive workshops (e.g. "10,000-step challenge") encourage people to take a closer look at their own health and provide long-term motivation.

Mental healthMental health is an essential component of sustainable health promotion. Companies can support this through the following measures:

• Resilience training: Measures for ResilienceStress management, mindfulness training or mental coaching help employees to deal with challenges in a more resilient and relaxed way.
• Stress management coursesOnline or face-to-face courses on topics such as time management, meditation or progressive muscle relaxation help to reduce stress at an early stage.
• Quiet zones in the companyRetreats, such as quiet rooms or green spaces, allow employees to relax and recharge their batteries.

c) Resource-conserving BGM solutions

• Digital health services: Online courses and hybrid programmes reduce travel distances and can be used flexibly and individually at the same time.
• Paperless communication: The provision of health information via digital platforms reduces the consumption of resources and increases the accessibility of measures.
• Co-operation with regional partners: Cooperation with local sports providers or health experts supports the sustainable development of the region.

The positive domino effects of sustainable health promotion

A sustainable OHM has far-reaching positive effects, such as

• Fewer sick days lead to higher productivity and lower economic losses.
• Healthy and motivated employees contribute to a positive corporate culture.
• A strong corporate image helps to attract skilled labour and increase employer attractiveness.

Conclusion: Sustainability as the key to future-orientated OHM

Sustainable health promotion and sustainability in occupational health management is More than a short-term trend - she is a strategic approach for sustainable, healthy and successful corporate development. Companies that focus on resource-conserving, long-term and effective measures not only benefit from healthier and more motivated employees, but also from economic advantages and a stronger competitive position.

Now is the right time to establish sustainable OHM as an integral part of the corporate strategy.