Health promotion programs in small worksites: results of a national survey

PURPOSE: This study documents the prevalence of workplace health promotion activities at small worksites with 15 to 99 employees. DESIGN: A random sample of U.S. worksites stratified by size and industry (n = 3628) was drawn using American Business Lists. MEASURES: Each worksite was surveyed using a computer-assisted telephone interview system to document activities related to health promotion and related programs, worksite policies regarding health and safety, health insurance, and philanthropic activities. SUBJECTS: Participation varied by industry and size, with an overall response rate for eligible worksites of 78% for a total sample of 2680 worksites. DATA ANALYSIS: Data were analyzed using SUDAAN statistical software. RESULTS: Approximately 25% of worksites with 15 to 99 employees offered health promotion programs to their employees, compared with 44% of worksites with 100+ employees. As with the larger worksites, the most common programs for worksites with 15 to 99 employees were those related to occupational safety and health, back injury prevention, and CPR. The majority of worksites in both size categories had alcohol, illegal drug, smoking, and occupant protection policies. The majority of both small and large worksites also offered group health insurance to their employees (92% and 98%, respectively), with many of the worksites also extending benefits to family members and dependents (approximately 80% for both business sizes). CONCLUSIONS: The results indicated that small worksites are providing programs to their employees, with a primary focus on job-related hazards. Small worksites also have formal policies regarding alcohol, drug use, smoking, and seatbelt use and offer health insurance to their employees at a rate only slightly lower than that of large worksites.