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'Disappearing' managers indicate healthy staff

Regarding staff as the most valuable of all Council assets, Victoria's City of Casey has undertaken a comprehensive program of staff health promotion.

Chief Executive Officer Mike Tyler said Council regards health promotion activities as a worthwhile investment. "The benefits are evident in terms of staff morale and motivation and in reductions in workplace stress, accidents and injuries," he said.

An initial staff survey identified many areas of concern. "We asked staff what health issues they wanted assistance with or advice on," Mike Tyler said. "That way we were sure we would be providing the activities and promotions that would be of most interest and benefit."

Activities have included information sessions on gender specific health issues, such as prostate and breast cancer, and discounted corporate membership for staff at a local gym.

Staff fitness checks cover height/weight ratio, blood pressure, cholesterol checks and counselling. A successful road safety drug and alcohol awareness training session for staff who have use of Council vehicles will now be extended to all staff.

A special program targeting managers was so successful in reducing their weight it merited the comment, 'Our managers are disappearing!'

Brochure stands have been installed in the staff lunchroom and washrooms with further health promotion activities scheduled to take place this year. Topics will include healthy eating, bowel cancer, diabetes, stress management, menopause, quit smoking and managing arthritis.

For further information contact Occupational Health and Safety Officer, David Gallagher, telephone (03) 9705 5200

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