You already know that your employees are the asset in which your business invests the most – and, of course, you want to protect that investment! You want to keep workers safe on the job, but what about staying healthy?

Numerous studies have shown that employees who are physically and mentally healthy are more productive, are absent from work fewer days, and are less likely to experience job-related injuries. Of course they utilize healthcare services less often, which also helps your business save money on healthcare costs.

So how can you help your workforce to be healthier?

One way is to offer wellness programs that encourage employees to maintain healthy lifestyles. Wellness programs can include anything from fitness classes and weight-loss challenges to smoking cessation programs and mental health support groups.

In a study on the ROI of employee wellness programs, Harvard researchers concluded that for every dollar spent on employee wellness, medical costs fall $3.27 and absenteeism drops $2.73 on average. This is a 6-to-1 return on investment.

But there are other ways you can strive to make your workplace one which fosters employee health.

• Encourage healthy eating habits. Provide healthy snacks and drinks in vending machines and the break room.
• Encourage employees to stay active. Offer a gym membership discount, or start a walking or biking group.
• Promote stress relief. Encourage employees to take breaks during the day, and offer yoga or meditation classes.
• Encourage employees to get regular check-ups and screenings. Offer health insurance discounts for preventive care.
• Make it easy for employees to get to and from work. Offer transportation discounts or subsidies, or start a carpool program.
• Ensure that your company offers a positive work environment where employees feel safe and appreciated.

Long story short: creating a healthy workplace is good for good for your employees – and great for your bottom line.

For more than 25 years, Beall Financial and Insurance Services, Inc., has been helping corporations and individuals protect their most important assets. The agency’s client base covers a spectrum of businesses that require specialized insurance packages and knowledge. With offices in Newport Beach and Redlands, California, Beall Financial and Insurance Services serves clients nationwide.