Introducing Stretching Programs In The Workplace

There are many reasons for employers to take necessary steps to ensure workplace safety. Direct and indirect workplace injury costs amount to more than $1bn a week in America, forcing employers to take proactive safety measures. Workplace injuries also negatively impact the economic livelihoods of employees because they cannot work to earn when they are dealing with serious injuries. On-site injury prevention services have comprehensive stretching programs to improve employee safety, health, and performance in the workplace. The workplace stretching programs used install measures that identify safety risks and treat minor injuries before they are exacerbated. Below are the benefits of workplace stretching programs for employers to consider.

Reducing On-Site Injuries

Employers have a legal duty to provide a safe and conducive work environment for their employees. Under workers' compensation law, employers are liable and must compensate employees for all work-related injuries. Thus, employers have a vested interest in safeguarding employees against workplace injuries. Many employees usually report to work without warm-up exercises, which leaves them vulnerable to injuries. As witnessed in high-performing athletes, cold muscles, tendons, and ligaments are susceptible to tears and injury. Workplace stretching programs help employees stretch their muscles, keeping them alert and physically active. Employees warm and stretch their muscles just like athletes do before performing to ensure maximum flexibility. Simple stretching exercises led by trained professionals guarantee a reduction in work-related injuries. 

Improving Employee Productivity

The success of any business is pegged on its employees' productivity. Thus, employers must establish protocols and measures that boost workers' productivity and efficiency. When employees are highly motivated and productive, they work faster and, in the process, improve the company's profit margins. Workplace stretching programs offer exercises that work on opposing muscle groups, increasing muscle coordination and balance. Furthermore, workplace stretching programs improve blood flow to the muscles, which reduces fatigue. Thus, employees feel relaxed, which makes them work efficiently. Employers should consider workplace stretching programs as a performance improvement strategy.

Reducing Employee Turnover Costs

The average cost of replacing an hourly worker is $1,500 per employee. Employee turnover costs a lot because companies must spend money sourcing new candidates. Additionally, the companies must cover interview costs before spending more money on training and integration. Finding replacement workers for injured employees is equally difficult because they take time to get used to the workplace. Thus, companies benefit from investing in workplace stretching programs that reduce absenteeism. Moreover, the programs reduce the number of reported injuries, mitigating frequent recruitments. Overall, employers should consider adopting injury prevention programs to improve workers' wellness and productivity.


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