Organization officials have a legal and moral responsibility to ensure that the workplace is free from unnecessary hazards. Employers hold responsibility for understanding what is necessary to keep workers safe from harm. Conditions surrounding the workplace must be secure for employee’s physical and mental health. As many organizations have implemented wellness program, that focus on smoking cessation, weight control, stress management, early diagnosis of health problems, prevention and education about life-style related and contagious illness. Wellness program can cut Employers health cost and lower absenteeism by preventing health related problems.

QUESTION

Assignment-3

TOPIC: EMPLOYEE HEALTH AND SAFETY IN THE ORGANIZATION

Organization officials have a legal and moral responsibility to ensure that the workplace is free from unnecessary hazards. Employers hold responsibility for understanding what is necessary to keep workers safe from harm. Conditions surrounding the workplace must be secure for employee’s physical and mental health. As many organizations have implemented wellness program, that focus on smoking cessation, weight control, stress management, early diagnosis of health problems, prevention and education about life-style related and contagious illness. Wellness program can cut Employers health cost and lower absenteeism by preventing health related problems.

Reference: Textbook- DeCenzo, D. A., & Robbins, S. P. (2013). Human resource management , Chapter 13 Health and Safety.

Assignment Questions:

1.Describe the role of HR in offering Healthy and safe work environment to the workers. Also write the ways that Occupational Safety and Health Administration OSHA assist employers in creating a safer workplace. ( Marks:4)

2.Discuss the purpose and significance of Wellness Programs/Disease Management in the Organization. Support your answer with the example of two companies that provide these programs to their workers. (Marks 2.5)

3.If you’re HR Manager, how can you support your employees during the Public Health Emergency/Outbreak? Present your HR planning to run the organization effectively along with employees’ safety.(Marks: 3.5)

ANSWER

 Employee Health and Safety in the Organization: The Role of HR and Strategies for Support

Introduction

Employee health and safety are paramount concerns for organizations. Not only do employers have a legal obligation to provide a safe working environment, but they also hold a moral responsibility to ensure the well-being of their workforce. This essay explores the role of Human Resources (HR) in offering a healthy and safe work environment, the assistance provided by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the purpose and significance of wellness programs, and strategies for HR managers to support employees during public health emergencies or outbreaks.

 Role of HR in Offering a Healthy and Safe Work Environment

HR plays a crucial role in promoting and maintaining a healthy and safe work environment. The following are key responsibilities of HR in this regard:

Developing and Implementing Safety Policies: HR professionals are responsible for developing and implementing safety policies and procedures that comply with legal regulations and industry standards. These policies ensure that employees are aware of their rights and responsibilities in maintaining a safe workplace (Caligiuri et al., 2020).

Conducting Safety Training: HR conducts safety training programs to educate employees on potential hazards, emergency procedures, and the proper use of safety equipment. These initiatives empower employees to actively participate in maintaining a safe environment.

Monitoring and Evaluating Safety Practices: HR regularly assesses workplace conditions, identifies potential hazards, and implements corrective measures. By conducting safety audits and inspections, HR ensures ongoing compliance and improvement in safety practices.

 Managing Workers’ Compensation: HR manages workers’ compensation claims and processes, ensuring that employees receive appropriate support and benefits when they experience work-related injuries or illnesses.

OSHA’s Assistance in Creating a Safer Workplace

OSHA, a government agency in the United States, assists employers in creating safer workplaces through the following means

 Regulations and Standards: OSHA establishes and enforces regulations and standards that employers must adhere to. These regulations cover various aspects of workplace safety, such as hazard communication, personal protective equipment, and recordkeeping.

Compliance Assistance Programs: OSHA provides educational resources, training, and consultation services to assist employers in understanding and implementing safety measures. These programs help organizations proactively address potential hazards and ensure compliance with OSHA standards.

Purpose and Significance of Wellness Programs/Disease Management

Wellness programs and disease management initiatives contribute to the overall well-being of employees and the organization. They aim to improve employee health, reduce healthcare costs, and enhance productivity. Two notable examples of companies implementing wellness programs are as follows:

 Company A: This organization offers a comprehensive wellness program that includes smoking cessation programs, gym memberships, healthy eating initiatives, stress management workshops, and regular health screenings. By promoting healthy lifestyle choices and early detection of health issues, Company A aims to prevent health-related problems and reduce absenteeism (Mattke, 2013).

Company B: Company B provides disease management programs for employees with chronic conditions. These programs offer personalized support, education, and resources to help employees manage their health effectively. By empowering individuals to take control of their conditions, Company B enhances employee well-being and productivity.

Supporting Employees during Public Health Emergencies/Outbreaks

As an HR manager, the following HR planning strategies can be implemented to ensure organizational effectiveness and employees’ safety during public health emergencies or outbreaks:

 Communication and Education: Regularly disseminate accurate and timely information about the public health emergency or outbreak to employees. Provide guidance on preventive measures, hygiene practices, and any organizational changes implemented in response to the situation (Norris et al., 2018).

Remote Work and Flexible Schedules: Enable remote work options and flexible schedules to minimize the risk of exposure and accommodate employees’ personal circumstances. Ensure that necessary technology and resources are available to facilitate remote work.

 Mental Health Support: Establish resources and initiatives to support employees’ mental health during challenging times.

 This may include counseling services, employee assistance programs, and virtual support groups.

 Health and Safety Protocols: Implement and enforce rigorous health and safety protocols, such as enhanced cleaning measures, physical distancing, and the provision of personal protective equipment. Regularly communicate and reinforce these protocols to maintain a safe work environment.

Conclusion

Ensuring employee health and safety is a critical responsibility for organizations, with HR playing a vital role in creating a healthy work environment. By implementing safety policies, conducting training, monitoring practices, and managing workers’ compensation, HR contributes to workplace safety. OSHA’s assistance further supports employers in creating a safer workplace through regulations, compliance assistance, and resources. Wellness programs and disease management initiatives contribute to employee well-being and productivity, as exemplified by Company A and Company B. During public health emergencies or outbreaks, HR managers can support employees by implementing effective HR planning strategies, including communication, remote work options, mental health support, and health and safety protocols. By prioritizing employee health and safety, organizations can create a positive work environment that promotes well-being and productivity.

References

Caligiuri, P., De Cieri, H., Minbaeva, D., Verbeke, A. L., & Zimmermann, A. (2020). International HRM insights for navigating the COVID-19 pandemic: Implications for future research and practice. Journal of International Business Studies, 51(5), 697–713. https://doi.org/10.1057/s41267-020-00335-9

Mattke, S. (2013, January 1). Workplace Wellness Programs Study: Final Report. PubMed Central (PMC). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4945172/ 

Norris, S. L., Sawin, V. I., Ferri, M., Sastre, L. B., & Porgo, T. V. (2018). An evaluation of emergency guidelines issued by the World Health Organization in response to four infectious disease outbreaks. PLOS ONE, 13(5), e0198125. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0198125