Healthy Workplaces Program

The Healthy Workplaces program recognizes and assists Howard County workplaces that are committed to improving employee health and wellness. Six main categories of health are emphasized through this program: nutrition, physical activity, a culture of wellness within the workplace, mental health, environmental health, and safety.

The Howard County Health Department helps interested workplaces implement a health program regardless of the size of the workplace or the business model. Moreover, support is offered to workplaces who are seeking to begin a health program and to those who are looking to take an existing or well-established program to the next level. The Health Department begins by recognizing the workplace’s current efforts in the certification program. After this step, the workplace is connected with the resources needed to enhance wellness efforts. Organizations are eligible to receive Bronze, Silver, or Gold certifications. Workplaces also have the option to apply for an Innovation Award to showcase a particular policy or program that has been particularly effective in helping employees reach health and wellness goals.

Becoming a Healthy Workplace include has many benefits for both the employees and for the business. First and foremost, Healthy Workplace programs boost employee morale. Boosted morale is proven to increase productivity and to better the workplace environment. Improved company health not only makes employees more productive but also has the potential to save the company money by reducing the number of sick days and disability days requested by their employees. Participants are eligible to win a monetary award for innovative policies and programs and gains increased visibility by being included as a Healthy Workplace in print online publicity as well as in community publications. The Health Department not only publicly recognizes participation in the program but also provides technical assistance to support current efforts and plan for future activities and policy development.

To become a Healthy Workplace supported by the Howard County Health Department, download the Healthy Workplaces Toolkit from the website and begin implementing activities that will make a business healthier, happier and more productive.

To make businesses healthier, happier and more productive through company-sponsored health and wellness programs.

Over 30 companies received awards for health achievements made through the Healthy Workplaces program in 2009.