Sustainability website / Case Studies 2004 / Xstrata coal / Working Bodies Programme

Working Bodies Programme

The Working Bodies Programme in place at Oaky Creek Coal in Queensland, Australia, has significantly improved the major health risk indicators of the 413 participants, including body fat, body girths and blood pressure.

The programme was specifically designed to address key risk factors affecting the health of male 'blue-collar' workers.

Studies have shown that levels of obesity in Australian working men are reaching crisis proportions. Obesity is one of the main risk factors of heart disease, diabetes and stroke as well as high blood pressure and back strain. It is also clearly associated with an increased risk of certain cancers, osteoarthritis, sleep apnoea and other debilitating illnesses.

The aim of the Working Bodies Programme is to encourage participants to adopt healthy lifestyle patterns as an integral part of daily life. As a result, we would expect to see an increase in gym memberships, fitness assessments, preventive physiotherapy visits and participation in local exercise activities; increased demand for healthier food choices at the canteen; and a reduction in musculoskeletal-type injury incidence and severity.

The compulsory programme, which comprised six informative, motivating and practical sessions, was presented by a qualified dietician in two three-hour sessions on site during the monthly training days. Health risk indicators of weight, waist, body fat and blood pressure were measured and recorded at each session, as well as exercise times for aerobic and resistance training. A medical check was strongly encouraged and blood lipid profiles were recorded.

Employees achieved a significant improvement in the major health indicators and there was also a significant shift towards long-term maintenance of a healthy lifestyle.