Putting the health back into health and safety

O’Donovan Waste Disposal implement internal well-being strategy for the company’s employees

IN what is said to be a groundbreaking move for an SME in the waste sector, O’Donovan Waste Disposal have introduced and completed the implementation of an internal well-being strategy called the ‘Dynamo Welfare Project’ (Dynamo), continuing their commitment to prioritizing the workplace wellness of the firm’s 165 employees alongside their physical safety.

Research by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) – Waste Statistics in the UK 2018 – found that workers in the waste sector statistically suffered more from work-related ill health than other workers across all industries. Dynamo assists staff in maintaining positive health and well-being by teaching self-awareness techniques and the tools to manage a range of negative emotions, including anxiety.

The programme includes ongoing interactive training modules for all staff, which are delivered in house. The training increases the ability of participants to maintain their composure and stabilize emotions as they face day-to-day challenges in their work and private lives.

The aim of the strategy is to take a more holistic and inclusive approach to staff health and well-being, resulting in a safer, more efficient and engaged workforce operating at the highest standards. Staff also benefit by having better physical and mental health, which allows them to deal more effectively with any work-related challenges as well as helping them to manage any struggles they may face in their personal lives.

To complement the programme, trained welfare champions have also been appointed throughout the company, equipped with the skills to support colleagues on a confidential peer-to-peer level.

Managing director Jacqueline O’Donovan said: ‘Family values sit at the very heart of our business and our employees are our biggest asset. We consider safeguarding their physical and mental health a top priority and feel that the introduction of this policy sends the strongest message to staff that their well-being is of paramount importance.

‘The training we have implemented can help us all manage day-to-day challenges better, not just at work, but in our personal lives too, which greatly benefits everyone – staff, clients and the company.’