What is the Healthy Steps @ Work Toolkit?

• Be Aware – educational material such as fact sheets, newsletter inserts, posters and brochures
• Make it easy – skill building activities such as contests, challenges, activities and quizzes
• Be involved – ideas for creating a supportive environment such as a workplace wellness program and participating in community activities
• Speak out – ideas for policies within the workplace and how to support changes in the environment that impact health

Why is it Important?

Unhealthy eating habits and physical inactivity are important risk factors for chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and some cancers. About 30 percent of Canadians are physically inactive and over 50 percent are overweight (Chronic Disease Prevention Alliance of Canada, 2007). Since the majority of adults are employed and spend a large part of their time at work, the workplace is the ideal setting to promote physical activity, healthy eating and sun safety.

Creating healthier work environments improves employee’s lifestyle behaviors, morale and productivity.

When workplaces invest in balanced (comprehensive) workplace health promotion there is a reduction in absenteeism, sick leave, health plan costs, workers’ compensation and disability (PHRED, 2007). Creating healthier work environments improves employee’s lifestyle behaviours, morale and productivity.

This resource was developed by the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit in collaboration with community partners as part of a comprehensive approach to improve healthy eating, physical activity and sun safety behaviours for all residents of Simcoe and Muskoka. Collective action in home, school and workplace settings can facilitate change. For more information about how we all can contribute to healthy lifestyle opportunities visit A Call to Action: Building a Lifetime of Good Health Begins Now.