Revolutionizing employee health in construction: Lynnwood Roofing's Preventive Health Assessment initiative

Executive summary

In an unprecedented move for the construction industry, Lynnwood Roofing has implemented a company-wide Preventive Health Assessment (PHA) program, which provides PHAs to all employees at no cost to them. This initiative represents a significant shift in how blue-collar industries approach employee health and wellbeing.

Key highlights of this initiative include:

All employees being eligible for a PHA at their convenience
A one hundred percent company-funded program
A focus on both physical and mental wellbeing
Lynnwood Roofing increasing its attractiveness as an employer by providing innovative health benefits

The value proposition of this program extends beyond potential health benefits, encompassing the opportunity to improve employee retention, enhance company culture, and a potential long-term impact on industry-wide safety standards.

Company background

Lynnwood Roofing, a second-generation commercial and industrial roofing company, has built its reputation on building quality roofs. The construction industry faces persistent challenges in employee retention and health concerns. With a shortage of skilled workers and the physical demands of the job, maintaining a stable workforce is crucial for long-term success.

The innovation: providing preventive care to employees

Preventive Health Assessments (PHAs) are comprehensive health evaluations which provide a roadmap for ongoing wellness and may detect potential health issues early. Lynnwood Roofing's decision to implement PHAs across their entire workforce marks a significant departure from traditional health benefits (standard health benefits like dental, medication) in the construction industry.

The company's CEO, Justin Cote, explains the motivation behind this move: "The best way to be successful is to manage your health at all ages. It’s never too early or late to pick up new habits.” Mr. Cote wants to do the best for his employees, and supporting them with their health goals is an incredible gift. Implementing a program that focuses on employee health also potentially helps employees feel more valued as people.

Leadership vision

The inspiration for this program came directly from the top. Cote, driven by personal health experiences and a long-standing interest in longevity and preventive medicine, saw an opportunity to extend these benefits to the entire company. "We want our people to stay healthy and well,” the CEO emphasizes.

Strategic objectives of the PHA program include:

Enhancing employee wellbeing
Improving retention of skilled workers
Promoting long-term health among the workforce

A key cultural transformation goal is breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health in the construction industry. By including mental health assessments in the PHA, Lynnwood Roofing is sending a clear message: "It's ok to not be ok” and that they care about their employees and their wellbeing.

Program impact

While the program is still in its early stages, Lynnwood Roofing has already observed several positive outcomes including:

Increased loyalty and appreciation from employees. As Cote notes, "There's definitely an increased sense of loyalty and also a shift in focus. It's not just about business… it's about wellbeing."
The PHA initiative has reinforced the company's commitment to employee wellbeing, contributing to a culture where employees feel valued.

Success stories

While respecting employee privacy, the company has noted several positive responses to the program including that multiple employees have expressed gratitude for the initiative and one in specific sharing that “my wife made me thank you for this”, highlighting the program's impact beyond the workplace.

Industry implications

Lynnwood Roofing's PHA initiative sets a new standard for employee care in the construction industry. While the company doesn't actively market this benefit, word-of-mouth within the industry may create a competitive advantage in attracting and retaining talent.

Cote sits on the Alberta Safety Construction Association and notes that traditional safety programs have peaked in effectiveness. Initiatives like the PHA program represent a new frontier in promoting worker health and safety, potentially influencing industry-wide practices.

Future outlook

Lynnwood Roofing sees the PHA program as part of a larger commitment to employee wellbeing and company sustainability. Future plans include:

Continued integration with other cultural and safety initiatives
Potential expansion of wellness programs based on PHA outcomes
Ongoing commitment to addressing both physical and mental health needs of employees

Key takeaways

Best Practices:

Full company implementation removes barriers and sends a strong message about company values.
Leadership commitment is crucial for program success.
Integrating the program with broader cultural initiatives enhances its impact.

Lessons Learned:

Timing the program's introduction with compensation adjustments can help in its acceptance and appreciation.

Cote’s advice to other leaders considering similar initiatives is straightforward: "Just do it."

Call-to-action

For companies considering implementing similar health initiatives:

Assess your company's current benefits including health and wellness offerings.
Engage with health providers to understand preventive health care options.
Commit to a company-wide rollout to maximize impact.
Communicate the program's value to employees, emphasizing the company's commitment to their wellbeing and attendance rates

As Cote has said, "This isn't about perception... It's about the team. It's about taking care of your team. That's what it's about. Bottom line."

By prioritizing employee health through innovative programs like PHAs, companies in traditional industries can revolutionize their approach to workforce management, potentially leading to healthier, more loyal, and more productive teams.