Exercise as Medicine - Health Promotion and Job Satisfaction

Abstract

Abstract In 1994 Norway was awarded the winter Olympic games in Lillehammer. Simultaneously Statoil initiated a campaign with the main goal to encourage employees to participate in physical activities, independent of previous experience in exercising or training. A project group of health and working environment specialists was established with mandate to work out an exercise and follow-up health program for employees experiencing chronic and recurring musculoskeletal disorders, the main goal being to achieve adequate knowledge and confidence regarding personal health management, and improve physical condition and body function ability. The method is based on three phases, where each participant is followed over one year. The program contains progression from exercising in groups with a qualified instructor during working hours with a build up towards physical activity/ exercise twice to three times a week outside of work. Participation requires motivation for the program and for exercising regularly, superior's approval for work absence through the first and second phase and discipline to individually organize and restructure leisure time. The exercise program is thoroughly established and has shown to be appreciated by the participants as well as by the unions and the company management. Every year employees apply for participation in the program. The program is used with good results in different business areas as: offshore installations, onshore plants and by personnel in the administrative support functions. An extensive collection of data shows also a considerable decline in number of days of absence due to illness for the average participant. The program and the focus on exercise and lifestyle are believed to contribute to keep Statoil as a company with considerable lower absence due to illness than in the industry in Norway.