Slovakia

Duslo is a chemical company that manufactures organic and inorganic chemical compounds. In a working environment where hazardous chemicals and high temperatures are common, human error can have serious consequences, so safety and health in the workplace are a primary concern for the company. The average Duslo employee is aged over 45 years. The company recognises the wealth of experience these older employees possess, but also acknowledges the increased risks associated with older workers, including the higher occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and greater predisposition to occupational injury. Duslo undertook extensive research to identify the areas that employees were concerned about and used the information gathered to develop an employee care programme and implement appropriate measures to reduce occupational risks and improve work performance. Awareness of the programme was raised using meetings, the company intranet, notice boards and the company magazine. To prevent MSDs, annual ergonomic evaluations are carried out, and ergonomic equipment is provided to the employees. ‘Spine seminars’ were organised, focusing on correct sitting posture, and individual and group exercise led by a therapist was offered to the staff, including rehabilitation sessions in the swimming pool, sauna and whirlpool. Professional lectures have been organised on healthy eating, and free dietary supplements have been provided to employees. Intergenerational contact was promoted through knowledge-sharing initiatives. Older employees shared their experiences of production technology and specific problems and solutions with younger employees; younger employees then shared their expertise with newer technology such as IT programs with older employees, making these meetings mutually beneficial exchanges. To encourage mixing among employees of all ages and to promote physical and mental health, Duslo also encouraged employees to participate in sporting activities. Several activities were organised, including a football tournament, a bowling league and a running club. In addition, an employee day and a sports day were established as annual events for workers and their families, to create a better atmosphere by enabling employees to build relationships with colleagues throughout the company and to improve work–life balance. Several measures to reduce psychosocial risks were also introduced. Seminars on stress and how to deal with it were held, and free, discreet consultations with a psychologist were offered to all employees. A particularly innovative action on Duslo’s part was the establishment of a care centre for workers’ elderly relatives. Employees with caring responsibilities could bring relatives to the centre while they were at work, safe in the knowledge that their relatives were receiving professional care with medical supervision. • A reduction in sick leave as a result of stress, depression and other mental health issues has been reported.
• Since beginning the project, productivity and customer • satisfaction levels have both increased. • Activities to build interpersonal relationships in the • workplace have improved the working environment • and increased the frequency of social events.
• Since the beginning of the project, employees have shown greater interest in physical activity and healthier lifestyle choices

Level of Education: Continuing vocational education and training

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