Health Links (HL): Why is the health and safety of your employees important to you?

Castle Rock Chamber (CRC): Because it makes our employees more productive and happier. We are also role models for our members in regards to health and safety practices in the workplace.

HL: What does your workplace health and safety program look like? Do you offer both components to employees?

CRC: We send out weekly emails on nutrition, stretching, healthy recipes, and educational articles on health. We go over health topics in our staff meetings and get up and stretch every two hours.

HL: How will you/do you know your program is successful?

CRC: We have noticed a shift in employees. They are exercising more and making healthier food choices. We have also noticed some weight loss and better, more positive attitudes overall.

HL: What obstacles did you have to overcome to get your program started? How did you overcome them?

CRC: Not everyone likes to get involved in a health and safety program so you have to come up with ideas to make it interesting for everyone and keep everyone engaged.

HL: Does your health and safety program help give back to your community?

CRC: We are a Chamber of Commerce so our goal is to build a healthy culture amongst our business community in Castle Rock. As a chamber, we are working hard to bring interesting and educational presentations around health and safety to the community.

HL: What tip/advice would you give to a business that is considering starting a workplace health and safety program?

CRC: You have to do what works best for your particular organization and employees. It takes time and a lot of effort but with patience and persistence it will become part of your businesses culture.