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Alpha Technologies Ltd. sees benefits of healthy manufacturing staff.
"Our employees are our most valuable assets. We have a responsibility to them and their good health is in our best interests." John C. Lee, General Manager, Alpha Technologies Ltd..
Alpha Technologies was founded in 1976 to provide power supplies to the cable television industry, and in addition, it now provides high tech custom engineered UPS's and transfer switches to computer, medical, telecom, industrial and traffic industries. The company, located in Burnaby, employs over 190, 70 percent of whom are manufacturing staff.
In September 2001, Workplace Wellness Solutions, was contracted to provide an on-site fitness facility and orient staff. The intent was to give employees the opportunity to address their cardiovascular, strength and flexibility needs. All employees were medically screened and oriented to the gymnasium before embarking on a fitness program.
At the core, Alpha Technologies believes healthy employees contribute to a healthy bottom line. "There's a physical component to working in a manufacturing environment and if you don't have the strength and flexibility it will take its toll. Our corporate wellness program gives staff the opportunity to become healthier and we've also made it convenient and time-efficient by providing an on-site fitness facility," explains John Lee, General Manager, Alpha Technologies Ltd.
While Alpha Technologies' wellness program is relatively new, the company views it as a long-term investment. "There is so much evidence out there citing the benefits of a wellness program to the employer and employee. We believe such a program will reduce injuries, accidents, turnover, absenteeism, stress and costs. It will also help employees feel better and healthier, more energized and productive and even more committed to an employer that is genuinely taking an interest in their health and well-being," John Lee concludes.
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