An integrated approach to preserving the health of workers of large industrial enterprises

Abstract

Introduction. Preserving employees’ health is one of the main components of corporate health and an essential factor of the social responsibility of business at the present stage of society’s development. The creation of “healthy” workplaces with the optimization of working conditions, preventive programs aimed at preventing occupational and general somatic diseases should become the main link in strengthening the health of the able-bodied population. The purpose of the study is to provide a scientific justification and develop a modular program for preserving the health of workers of mining enterprises with various methods of ore extraction (underground and open). Material and methods. The risk assessment of health disorders was carried out in stages: the state of working conditions, socio-demographic status were studied, behavioural risk factors were determined using questionnaires, fat metabolism was studied. Results. The main risk factors for health disorders of employees of mining enterprises were identified: working conditions that do not meet sanitary standards (noise and vibration class 3.1-3.3, physical overload class 3.1-3.2, high work intensity), behavioural factors including smoking, overweight and low physical activity, early violation of lipid metabolism. Discussion. Modular corporate programs have been developed to implement the principles of a healthy lifestyle (optimizing nutrition, increasing physical activity, stopping smoking, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption). The leading indicators of the effectiveness of the implementation of preventive measures are proposed. Conclusion. The development and application of effective health-saving corporate programs are the choices of a socially responsible business aimed at solving the following tasks: preserving the health of employees, increasing their motivation to comply with the principles of a healthy lifestyle, forming a responsible corporate culture and, as a result, increasing labour productivity. Creating and maintaining a healthy working environment leading to improved socio-economic development is one of the most effective investments in human capital.