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A progressive strategy has resulted in logistics company TDG European Chemicals reducing its absence rate by 50% over three years and saving £250,000 last year.
The company has been looking to mitigate the effects of the Working Time Directive, through the more effective use of its current workforce of about 1,400 people, the majority of whom are drivers.
Its latest initiative is the piloting of employee health screening. It involves staff attending a regular health check carried out by trained medical personnel.
Each employee receives a report covering feedback on elements such as weight, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, along with advice and an action plan to remedy any areas of concern.
The scheme is voluntary and the results confidential unless the employee is happy to disclose them.
Conal Scholes, HR director, said: "There is an excellent economic case for an employer to undertake proactive management of the long-term health of employees - and it may prove invaluable to our employees as well."
