Health promotion at work

This study examined health promotion intervention amongst council employees and determined the extent that any changes were subsequently maintained. The results showed that even with modest intervention, beneficial changes were observed in alcohol consumption, diastolic blood pressure, body mass, waist/hips ratio, body fat, aerobic capacity and arm strength. Behavioural measures tended not to change, but this could be a consequence of unfocused questioning or insufficient intensity of the health promotion activities. The sickness and absenteeism rates improved during the intervention and maintenance phases, making a strong case for health promotion from the employer's perspective. A critique of the experimental procedure suggested that the testing venue, the methods of obtaining consent, the continuity of subjects, initial attitudes, the intensity of the intervention and the project delivery were all features that would contribute to a successful outcome.