From this week’s T&D Extra - American style, but universal relevance:

Considering a workplace wellness program? You're not alone, and here's why:

Organizations with onsite health programs report less absenteeism, fewer work injuries, and higher productivity.

According to Mary Campbell, editor of The FINOVA Quarterly, here are some jump-start ideas for your own program:

* Ask employees what kinds of wellness programs they'd welcome (aerobics, weight counseling, meditation areas?)
* Replace the candy and soda machines with pretzels, bagels, and fruit juice.
* Start a brown-bag lunch seminar series of health-related topics, such as low-fat cooking and stress management.
* Establish a quiet place where workers can put up their feet and close their eyes.
* Arrange for onsite screenings for blood pressure, body-fat, and cholesterol. All voluntary, of course.

Reprinted from T&D Extra. Copyright 1999, the American Society for Training & Development (www.astd.org). Reprinted with permission. All rights reserved.