The Launch of Obesity Blueprint
Obesity is a major public health issue in Australia. The mining sector is no exception with 83.4% of NSW coal miners classified as obese or overweight. Workers who are obese have higher rates of absenteeism, reduced productivity, increased injury and illness, slower recovery rate and increased workers’ compensation costs. Obesity also increases the risk of fatigue, disability and premature death. In addition, obese workers are at greater risk of encountering negative attitudes and discrimination. These are all devastating consequences, but with strong leadership, a supportive working culture and strong systems, the prevalence of overweight and obesity in the workplace can be reduced. The NSW mining industry, through the NSW Minerals Council (NSWMC) is committed to tackling obesity. Through a partnership with Ethos Health, Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER) and the Centre for Resources Health and Safety at the University of Newcastle, a Blueprint for the Management of Overweight and Obesity (the Obesity Blueprint) has been developed and was launched at the 2016 HSEC Conference. The Obesity Blueprint serves as an industry-wide framework for managing obesity. Providing a comprehensive approach to the prevention and management of obesity that will benefit employees, employers and the community as a whole.
Download the Obesity Blueprint below:
Download the report that the Obesity Blueprint is based on:
For more information regarding the Obesity Blueprint, please contact:
Mr Greg Sullivan Director, Policy NSWMC 02 9274 1431 or gsullivan@nswmining.com.au; or
Dr Trent Watson CEO of Ethos Health 0414 680 884 or twatson@ethoshealth.com.au