According to the Federal Ministry of Health, studies show that for every 1 euro companies invest in workplace prevention per employee per year, they can expect a potential economic return of 2.20 euros. These figures provide every company with a strong incentive not just to think about workplace health promotion, but to actually get started. According to the "Workplace Health Management 2016" study, only 65% of respondents have access to workplace health initiatives. This is despite the fact that workplace health management has the potential to maintain and promote health, performance, and success for both a company and its employees. Who could say no to that?

We have put together some compelling arguments and facts to help you convince your boss to implement one or two measures immediately.

TOP 10 ARGUMENTS FOR MANAGEMENT

1) Increase productivity

Improving working conditions and employee health boosts performance and—not to be overlooked—employee motivation. This allows employees to fully realize their potential.

2) Improve the bottom line

Ultimately, workplace health management also increases a company's competitiveness, which is becoming increasingly important in today's market.

3) Reduce absenteeism

Every single sick day costs the employer money. For a medium-sized company, these costs are estimated at approximately 250 euros per day per employee. This is a significant factor that can add up considerably over the course of a year. Investing in your employees' health pays off: sick days decrease, benefiting both the employees and the employer.

4) Reduce turnover

The extra appreciation shown by the employer increases emotional attachment to the company. When employees identify with their workplace, they feel more comfortable and are more likely to stay with the company longer.

5) Demographic change

In the future, demographic shifts will massively change age structures across all industries. By 2020, one in three workers will be 50 or older. Internal health promotion helps companies effectively manage the challenges posed by demographic change.

6) Changing working conditions

Working conditions have changed radically in recent years. Increasing complexity and connectivity lead to higher psychological stress. This often results in overexertion, burnout, and a lack of emotional connection to one's job. Naturally, this needs to be addressed.

7) Employer of Choice

Investing in employee health increases employer attractiveness both internally and externally, contributing to the company's image among current staff, customers, and competitors. In times of skilled labor shortages and the growing importance of work-life balance, the positive effect on future recruitment is a decisive factor.

8) Tax incentives

Since the 2009 Annual Tax Act, employers have been able to offer their staff certain health-promoting measures that are tax-free up to an amount of 500 euros per employee per year (Section 3, No. 34 of the German Income Tax Act). The subsidized measures must meet specific requirements regarding quality, purpose, and objectives. This primarily includes preventive measures.

9) Legal regulations and framework conditions

It is important to remember that there are already legal regulations and framework conditions in place for companies. Guidelines regarding minimum requirements for safety and health protection at work—for example, concerning screen work, manual handling of loads, and noise and vibration protection—must be complied with.

10) Perfectly informed

If you are already informed about various health promotion measures and armed with good options, you demonstrate high initiative and a strong sense of responsibility to your boss. So, prepare well, name several concrete offers, and be ready to answer questions about providers, content, costs, and time requirements. Then nothing can go wrong!