The BASE-Program—A Multidimensional Approach for Health Promotion in Companies

Abstract

Multidimensional assessments for conducting interventions are needed to achieve positive health effects within companies. BASE is an acronym, consisting of B = “Bedarfsbestimmung” (requirements); A = “Arbeitsplatzorganisation” (organisation of work); S = “Schulung des belastungsverträglichen Alltagshandelns” (coaching preventive behaviour at work); E = “Eigenverantwortung und Selbstwirksamkeit” (self-responsibility and self-efficacy). It is a prevention program designed to avoid and reduce work-related musculoskeletal diseases. It was developed to support prevention strategies within companies. It comprises aspects of health protection, ergonomics, exercise and self-efficacy. A comprehensive assessment will identify strain e.g., musculoskeletal discomforts due to body positions or psychological stress. Moreover, the general health status, preferences and barriers for participating in health promotion programs are evaluated. This analysis leads to practical and goal-oriented recommendations and interventions which suit the needs of companies and employees. These are executed onsite in real workplace situations and involve the introduction of first-hand experience in behavioural change. Therefore, this practical approach enhances the employees’ acceptance and self-efficacy for health promotion. This can result in long-term health promoting behaviour. This article presents the outcome and sustainability effects of BASE in three different application fields (logistic, industrial and office workers).

Physical activity and health promotion for nursing staff in elderly care: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

“…31 However, it remains unclear whether this participatory approach is as successful as in other BASE interventions. Wollesen et al 22 could demonstrate sustainable changes in work-related problems, when implementing the BASE concept in the logistic, industrial and office sector.…”

“…29 For instance, implementing BASE, including ergonomics and posture training in a logistics department resulted in reduced low back pain and decreased dysfunctional lifting behaviour. 22 The overall objectives of this randomised controlled trial are (1) the evaluation of setting specific, individual and organisational context variables (subjectively perceived exposure to work-related demands, work-related pain in different parts of the body, health-related quality of life, perceived stress, work-related patterns of behaviour and experience, presentation behaviour, work environment, general needs and barriers to health promotion; infrastructure of the facility, social environment) and, (2) the review of the BASE concept in the nursing home setting. Following the implementation of standardised health promotion programmes further demand-oriented interventions can be implemented, considering the general needs and participants feedback after the standardised interventions.…”

“…This is a fundamental problem in the implementation of health promotion programmes, but the design has already been used in other BASE studies, reporting greater effects in the intervention group than in control group. 22 In addition, work culture, team environment and management can have an effect on intervention uptake and thus influence the effectiveness. Previous studies revealed no differences for work environment and occupation, 22 however we plan to control for this factor as a covariate.…”

“…22 In addition, work culture, team environment and management can have an effect on intervention uptake and thus influence the effectiveness. Previous studies revealed no differences for work environment and occupation, 22 however we plan to control for this factor as a covariate. Furthermore, interventions will take place during working hours at the worksite.…”

“…Thereby, the differentiated documentation of work-related risks, needs, wishes and barriers is relevant, as this is considered as a key factor for the successful implementation of health promotion programmes. 22 24 This ensures that sustainable and long-term behavioural modifications can be initialised and the motivation of the employees can be maintained. 25 Additionally, the quality of implementation and theory-based programmes are responsible for the success.…”