National Semiconductor UK
When National Semiconductor decided to raise awareness of cancer among its workforce, the microelectronics company had no idea just how much of an impact it would have among staff. But for one employee at least, it might just have saved his life.
Following information he received at work, he realised he had symptoms that needed to be checked by his GP. Tests later confirmed that he did have cancer, but thanks to early intervention, he has been successfully treated.
“That was a very positive side for us,” says Helen Bannerman, a Secretary at the Greenock-based company, and a member of their Healthy Working Lives group. “He came to us and said that the through the campaigns we did, he found out he did have cancer. But he went through the treatment, and got the all-clear.”
This is just one of the benefits that has flowed from the company’s long-standing efforts to improve health in the workplace, which started when NSUK signed up for the previous Scotland’s Health at Work (SHAW) scheme in 2000.
The company transferred to the Healthy Working Lives Award Programme in 2007, and soon found they were on course for a Gold Award, adds Helen. “We had a lot of things already in place which were very good, though a lot of hard work went into achieving the Award.”
One of the major benefits that the company offers its 420 staff is a fitness suite that is literally open all hours.
“We have a gym on site that we opened in 2001, and it’s open 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” says Helen. “That means that when people finish their shift they can use the gym, or go in before they start work."
For staff who prefer not to use gyms, Helen says the company is planning to encourage more staff to walk, using a specially designed path in the grounds, including guidance to help people measure how many kilometres they can clock up. “We are trying to encourage people to get out, especially in the good weather,” she says.
Staff have welcomed the extra emphasis on health in the workplace, which has also included a health needs assessment, adds Helen. “We have an ageing workforce, so we have the health risks that go along with that,” she explains. “The health needs assessment we carried out shows people are more aware and have begun to understand the importance of exercise.”
Mental health is also a priority, with ongoing efforts to help staff deal with stress. “We have an Occupational Health Adviser who provides support and advice, and there is access to confidential employee counselling,” says Helen. “People can contact the counselling service themselves – it’s something they can do direct if they don’t want to come forward.”
Helen adds that she believes other employers could benefit from taking part in the Award Programme. “It’s an extremely valuable tool, especially for those who don’t yet have policies in place.”
Staff have responded well to the efforts to improve health, including the awareness sessions focusing on issues like prostate and breast cancer, she adds. “On the whole, there has been very positive feedback,” she says.
