Warm-up for Work Program
Employees Warm-up at the Beginning of their
Shift
HealthWorks Inc. Warm-up for Work is a program designed to
support other HealthWorks Inc. ergonomics interventions.
The program consists of a series of range of motion
stretches, planned for the various muscle groups used
by employees in their job tasks. Typically, the Warm-Ups
are lead for 5-7 minutes at the beginning of a shift.
Some clients also schedule Warm-Up sessions periodically
throughout the shift, for employees doing high levels
of repetitive motion.
Training and Orientation
Facilitated by one of our consultants, our Warm-up
for Work programs include management and employee orientation,
Warm-Up leader training, and support materials. Leaders
receive Leader Binders and are able to use the large
laminated warm-up posters provided for the warm-up locations.
Improvements in Work Comfort
Our results speak for themselves. From HealthWorks
Warm-Up for Work follow-up assessments, employees have
reported improvements in work comfort, task performance,
and employee morale.
At an oil sands construction site, during the 5-month
period following implementation, Machine Shop employees
reduced visits to the nursing station from 5 per week
prior to warm-ups, to zero per week. In the 6th month
there were 2 visits to the nursing station.
In a food distribution warehouse, four months after
implementing the Warm-Up program, 79% of employees said
that the stretches had had an impact. 71% of employees
reported that their work comfort had either improved
or stayed the same. Individuals reported better lifting
techniques, feeling stronger/more comfortable with lifting,
and more restful sleep due to stretching.
“Everyone looks forward to the stretches. I hope
this program lasts a long time.”
“I’m interested in reducing on-the-job injury.
I would rather take a few minutes to warm-up than end
up in pain.” “Excellent; provides a time
to look at each other face-to-face; may be the only
relaxed time of the shift.” Warm-Up for Work
Leaders from various companies
“The program has been well received and supported
by the staff. I see it as an additional tool to bring
the staff together as a team, working towards a healthier
and happier work environment. I feel confident in the
success of the program by the positive response and
commitment of the Warm-Up leaders and staff.”
Management comment about the Warm-Up Program
“Once in a 'blue moon' I don't do my warm-ups
and I can feel stiff muscles after my shift.”
“This shows the company cares about our backs.”
Warm-Up Participants
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