Who Is Overweight

According to an article in a recent copy the Safety + Health magazine published by the National Safety Council overweight workers have become a problem for many industries. More and more companies are faced with having to make accommodations with personal protective equipment for employees who are in the plus sizes.

So, just what is considered "overweight"? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines overweight and obesity by using a body mass index which is calculated by using a person's weight and height. The scale that was developed is:

Less than 18.5 - Underweight

18.5 to 24.9 - Healthy Weight

25.0 to 29.9 - Overweight 

30 or Higher - Obese

A study was done by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health that showed having a body mass index in the "overweight" or "obese" range was associated with an increased risk of traumatic workplace injury. In short the study revealed that 85% of the workers injured at least once were classified as overweight or obese. It should be pointed out that we are talking about injury not accidents since the study suggests that healthy weight people are less likely to be noticeably injured in an accident.

Please note that this is a much abbreviated review of the article and you are encouraged to get more details from the National Safety Council.

IHC offers BMI testing that is more accurate than just using weight and height so an employer can identify those that have a higher risk factor for injury. Give us a call to schedule studies for your employees and start working toward a healthier and possibly safer workforce.