In May 2023 we reported to the management of Thompson and Redwood (T&R) that they may want to consider reviewing the risks associated with sleep issues in their workforce. Sleep deprivation is a common finding within Australian workforces. At the time of the reporting on the sleep matter we had been working with T&R in Perth, Western Australia for over 12 months. 

The risk to the business of a workforce turning up sleep deprived was significant. But what to do? 

Management, led by General Manager Stephen Lamond, decided to expand and integrate an evaluation tool into the existing offering to employees. This would identify the extent of the sleep issue and the challenges it presented. Stephen and his management team were already aware of the cost to the business of unhealthy behaviours as we were working with them on mitigating the risks associated with heart and head health. 

The integration of a risk factor (like sleep deprivation) into an occupational health, risk mitigation program was going beyond high viz gear, hard cap boots and fruit bowls on the end of desks. Management wanted real time data and results.   

T&R’s approach revolved around five key points. 

1. T&R broke down the silos that identifies risk and safety as two distinct areas of the business. Conducting a formal assessment to obtain the data provided a baseline for T&R and guided the approach needed to mitigate the risk. 

1. T&R supported solutions that would work best within the unique work surrounds of the business. This was done based on the data obtained and how the sleeping profiles looked across all employees. 

1. T&R engaged the employees and management to reach an approach that would work for all in the workplace. Meetings were held to describe the risk factor, how we were going to mitigate the risk and report back to the employees. Sharing the data with employees has become a hallmark of working with this organisation…and it works! 

1. T&R committed to the personnel and investment to bring about change, as well as give their employees opportunities to see the impact. The increased regularity of assessments was a key to the success of mitigating this risk factor. Management was always first in line to undertake all assessments. This integrated approach fostered individual change and encouraged positive health choices. This approach allowed employees to flourish in such a supportive environment. 

1. T&R evaluated the data and adapted the offering to suit the organisation. Regular evaluation ensured a positive impact on employee health and wellbeing.  

It is well documented that chronic and high-risk factors are costly. Employees in this category often have more injuries, work at a sub optimal level and increase workers compensation claims. 

T&R offer a clear pathway to mitigate individual risks, ensuring the business is well placed to better manage overall risks in the workplace. 

If you are considering how occupational health and safety can be integrated with employee health, wellbeing and performance then contact us.