SMALL businesses in Northam are leading the way in providing their employees with a healthier workplace.
Wheatlbelt Natural Resource Management (NRM) is among the 12 organisations awarded grants of up to $1000 by Healthier Workplace WA.
The not-for-profit agriculture, forestry and fishing organisation is involved with the management of natural resources within the Avon River Basin.
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READ NOWSmall businesses will use the funding to buy health-related equipment and services for employees.
Wheatbelt NRM manager Rebecca Palumbo said the funding would encourage healthier eating habits.
“The vehicle fridges they (staff) will purchase with the Healthier Workplace WA grant means staff will be able to take their lunch, snacks and water with them as they travel the Wheatbelt and can choose to avoid some less than healthy options on the road,” she said.
Healthier Workplace WA, run by the Heart Foundation in partnership with Cancer Council, will also provide advisors to help the awarded businesses implement a workplace health program tailored for their employees.
WA manager Emily Davey said the workplace was an important place to encourage healthy behaviour because employees spend many hours at work.
“Along with the health gains, short-to-medium term outcomes of a workplace health program include improved staff morale and engagement, team cohesiveness and increased individual work performance and productivity,” she said.
Other businesses to benefit from an industry grant include Mitre 10 in Northam.
Store manager Shayne Lucy said the grant would help build internal relationships at a time of higher than expected pressure between workers and day-to-day living.
“We will create a healthier environment at work and to regain the spirit between workers, management and families by having fun together while doing some exercise, yoga, education and team bonding,” he said.
Healthy workers are:
Up to 29 per cent more productive Take up to 21 per cent fewer sick days More engaged with their work Source: Healthier Workplace WA
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