Why Workplace Vaccinations are a Smart Decision
Strengthening the Health Culture
Vaccinations are more than just a medical measure – they are a clear indication that employee health is a priority. A comprehensive workplace health management system that includes vaccinations shows that you take your team’s needs and well-being seriously. This not only strengthens trust in leadership but also improves employee retention.
Less Effort for Employees
Organizing a vaccination day at the company allows employees to get vaccinated conveniently during working hours. This reduces the effort and barriers for many to get vaccinated. You’re helping ensure that more employees get the protection they need.
Preventing Sick Leave
Flu outbreaks and newly emerging viral diseases can significantly impact your business. Offering vaccinations at work is an easy and accessible way to increase vaccination rates. As a result, fewer employees fall ill, and productivity in the company remains stable. Current data from the 40th calendar week of 2024 shows that acute respiratory illness (ARI) activity remains high in the population, with around 8,700 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. This situation highlights the importance of preventive measures to protect your workforce’s health.
Vaccinations as Part of Occupational Health Care
Did you know that vaccinations are an essential component of occupational health care? According to Occupational Medicine Rules (AMR), employers are required to identify and assess work-related risks and implement appropriate protective measures. Especially for activities involving biological agents or international travel with increased infection risks, vaccinations are essential.
In Germany, workplace health management (WHM) – including vaccinations at work – is subject to various legal frameworks. Here are some key points to consider:
- Occupational Safety and Health Act (ArbSchG): Employers are required to identify, assess, and take measures against work-related hazards. An effective WHM, which includes vaccinations, helps protect the health of employees.
- Occupational Health Care Regulation (ArbMedVV): This regulation governs the necessary measures for occupational health care. Vaccinations are a key component, especially for employees exposed to higher risks. Make sure to follow the AMR recommendations, which specify vaccinations as part of occupational health care.
- Biological Agents Ordinance: Employees working with biological substances are subject to special regulations. Vaccinations must be offered when there’s an increased infection risk.
- Data Protection (GDPR): Handling personal data, particularly health data like vaccination status, is subject to strict privacy regulations. Employers must ensure that this data is handled confidentially and only collected with the employee’s consent.
- Doctor-Patient Relationship: Vaccinations should be administered by an occupational health physician who considers the individual health needs of employees. Employers should not have direct access to their employees’ vaccination status to protect the doctor-patient relationship.
- Voluntariness and Information Obligation: Participation in vaccination campaigns should generally be voluntary. Employers are obligated to inform employees comprehensively about the benefits and potential risks of vaccinations.
Identifying Risk Groups
It is particularly important to focus on at-risk groups. These can include employees with pre-existing conditions or those who have frequent contact with other people. By proactively offering vaccinations as an HR professional, you ensure these employees are optimally protected. It is advisable to inform employees about the different vaccines recommended for their specific roles.
Implementing Workplace Vaccination Measures
The AMR outlines when, under what conditions, and how vaccinations should be administered to ensure employee protection. For example, you can use the recommendations of the Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) to select the most suitable vaccinations for your workforce.
How to Organize a Workplace Vaccination Day
1. Planning and Preparation
The first step in organizing a vaccination day is to conduct a team survey to gauge interest in vaccinations. This helps you better estimate the amount of vaccine needed. The occupational health physician can then order the vaccines and arrange all the logistical details.
2. Executing the Vaccination Day
On vaccination day, employees simply bring their vaccination cards. The vaccination can be administered quickly and easily, with no long waiting times or extra trips to the doctor. This creates a relaxed atmosphere and encourages participation.
3. Encouraging Participation
To motivate employees to participate, you can provide additional incentives, such as information on the benefits of vaccination or a small reward for those who get vaccinated. This ensures the vaccination day is not only a necessary but also a positive experience for everyone involved.
Health Management as a Success Factor
A workplace vaccination campaign is just the beginning. To sustainably promote your team’s health, it’s important to implement a holistic health management strategy. In addition to vaccinations, offerings on nutrition, exercise, stress management, and mental health should also be part of your approach. This comprehensive strategy addresses the diverse needs of employees and creates a well-rounded health concept.
By combining various health initiatives, you foster a company culture that prioritizes employee well-being. Such a culture helps build trust and loyalty, boosting not only motivation but also productivity and overall job satisfaction. By promoting a positive work environment, you make a key contribution to long-term performance and ensure healthy employees well into retirement.
Conclusion: Strengthening Health – Reducing Absenteeism
By offering workplace vaccinations, you send a strong message: “The health of my team matters to me.” You protect your employees, reduce sick leave, and create a healthy work environment where everyone feels safe and valued. Plan your workplace vaccination day now and invest in the health and future of your team!
