Identifying the right solution to accommodate a work restriction is not always obvious. Following a consistent analytical process can ensure key details are not missed, helping to avoid potential issues such as employee and employer frustration or a potential impact on employee safety. Putting the right process in place can be crucial to a successful, organized return to work plan and can help to address costs, time and confusion.
Workplace Tools
Want to stay sharp? Keep your brain healthy!
As portions of our workforce continue to age, encouraging mind-healthy activities and habits is always a good idea. You may be familiar with some of the more obvious challenges of an aging workforce, but have you considered the impact of Alzheimer’s disease?
Per The Alzheimer’s Association,[1] most individuals who have the disease are over age 65 (and there is a 50-50 chance of developing the disease after age 85) and will face dreaded loss of memory, analytical skills and the ability to learn new tasks — all of which are critical to maintaining workplace productivity.
The Association also points out that well-established risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease are genetics and aging.[2] Although aging and genetics are two risk factors we can’t control, adopting healthy brain life habits might delay or prevent the appearance of Alzheimer’s disease.[3]
What impact are larger class sizes having on teachers?
Did you know teachers have a high incidence of voice problems? A study found that while teachers constitute only 2 percent of the working population, they make up 16 percent of hospital voice clinic populations diagnosed with a voice disorder. [1] In fact, 20 percent of the teacher population analyzed in the study reported missing work as a result of a voice problem. [1]
As an on-site disability consultant, I’ve worked with a number of teachers and in the last five years I’ve seen an increase in voice-related disabilities. The good news is there is a tool out there that can help teachers deal with this problem. It’s just that many people don’t know it exists.
Proper seating for the overweight workforce
Finding seating solutions that allow obese employees to sit comfortably in their desk chairs has been a challenge for years. And with a steady increase in the number of overweight workers, companies can no longer overlook these pertinent needs.
As recently as 10 years ago, most chair manufacturers did not offer products for people who weighed more than 300 pounds. Not only were there no chairs that fit these individuals, but rarely did the chairs hold up to the constant weight.
Today, office equipment, such as chairs, that is designed to suit larger people is in demand. And as an employer, you must ensure you are providing a safe, comfortable chair for your employees. This has created an opportunity for chair manufacturers to succeed in a thriving marketplace.
When looking at chair options, it’s important to focus on two key factors:
Reading the signs and avoiding the dead ends: Depression in the workplace
As people begin traveling for their summer vacations, they likely will use maps and signs to bypass the dead ends, and reach their destinations safely. Much like traveling, “reading the signs” also applies to mental health issues.
Depression is on the rise in the workplace today, and it’s pertinent for employers and employees to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms. The sooner they do, the more quickly employees can receive professional treatment and return to their life, and work healthier, happier and more productive.
Mental health treatment reveals blind spots
Can you imagine driving your car without mirrors? Not only would it be difficult to see your blind spots it also could be quite dangerous.
When it comes to mental health in our culture, there continues to be a stigma around admitting you are experiencing symptoms and/or seeking treatment. But the truth is we all have blind spots when it comes to recognizing psychiatric symptoms. As an employer there are ways to assist your employees in getting the help they need.