Health and Wellness Policy

Purpose

The New Day Company, LLC is dedicated to the health and well-being of our drivers. Recognizing that our employees are our greatest asset, this Health and Wellness Policy is designed to align with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations and promote a culture of health, safety, and wellness throughout the organization.

Scope

This policy applies to all employees of The New Day Company, LLC, particularly those holding safety-sensitive positions such as drivers and equipment operators.

Policy Statement

The New Day Company, LLC is committed to providing resources and support to maintain and improve the physical and mental health of our drivers. Our goal is to ensure a healthy workforce, which is essential for safe and efficient operations.

Health and Wellness Programs

1. Medical Examinations:
   • Regular DOT-compliant medical examinations are required for all drivers to ensure they meet the physical requirements of their job.
   • Encourage and facilitate health screenings and preventative care visits.
2. Fitness Programs:
   • Each employee and contractor is responsible for sourcing and utilizing their own fitness programs, resources, and facilities to encourage and maintain physical activity.
3. Mental Health Resources:
   • Access to confidential counseling services through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
   • Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) are common in many workplaces across the United States, including in Colorado. These programs offer various services to employees, including counseling, mental health assistance, and sometimes even legal or financial guidance.
   • Take advantage of complimentary government-sponsored programs that provide stress management workshops and mindfulness training sessions.
   • National Resources
   • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
     1. Offers resources for mental health and stress management, including helplines, treatment locators, and information on various health topics.
     1. Website: samhsa.gov
   • National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
     1. Provides information on stress management, coping mechanisms, and mental health education.
     1. Website: nimh.nih.gov
   • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
     1. Offers resources on coping with stress, including workplace wellness programs.
     1. Website: cdc.gov
   • State-Specific Programs
   • State Health Departments
     • Many state health departments have programs or resources dedicated to mental health and stress management.
     • For Colorado, you would check the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment.
   • Workplace Programs
   • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
     • Provides guidance on creating a psychologically healthy workplace, which may include stress management resources.
     • Website: osha.gov
   • Community Resources
   • Local Health Clinics and Hospitals
     • Often offer free workshops or seminars on stress management and wellness.
   • Community Mental Health Centers
     • Provide a range of services, including stress management and counseling.
   • Educational Institutions
   • Local Universities and Colleges
     • May offer free or low-cost stress management workshops to the community.
   • Online Resources
   • Mindfulness Apps
     • Although not government-sponsored, there are free versions of apps that offer mindfulness and meditation guidance.
   • Online Learning Platforms
     • Platforms like Coursera or edX may have free courses on stress management and mindfulness sponsored by universities or health organizations.
   • Libraries
   • Public Libraries
     1. Often host free community workshops and may have resources or partnerships with local health organizations.
   • To access these resources, you would typically search online for federal, state, or local government health department websites, contact local health clinics, or inquire at community centers and libraries in your area. They can provide information on available programs, how to enroll, and whether they’re currently active.
4. Nutritional Guidance:
   • Education on healthy eating habits and the availability of nutritious options while on the road.
   • Work with rest stops and service areas to provide discounts on healthy food choices.
5. Substance Abuse Prevention:
   • Strict adherence to DOT regulations on drug and alcohol testing for all safety-sensitive positions.
   • Support for substance abuse treatment and rehabilitation programs, including return-to-work agreements following DOT guidelines.
6. Health Education:
   • Ongoing health education sessions on topics such as sleep management, smoking cessation, and chronic disease management.
   • Distribution of educational materials on health-related topics pertinent to drivers.
7. Work-Life Balance:
   • Encourage a work-life balance through scheduling practices that allow for adequate rest and recuperation.
   • Address fatigue management through adherence to DOT Hours of Service regulations.

Responsibilities

• HR and Safety Departments are responsible for implementing and maintaining health and wellness programs, ensuring compliance with DOT regulations, and providing resources to employees.
• Drivers are expected to participate in medical examinations, comply with drug and alcohol testing, and engage with health and wellness initiatives.
• Management is tasked with supporting the health and wellness initiatives and fostering a company culture that prioritizes employee well-being.

Compliance

• Employees must comply with all health and wellness policy requirements, including mandatory medical examinations and substance abuse testing.
• Failure to comply with DOT regulations and company policy may result in disciplinary action.

Reporting

• Drivers and employees must report any health concerns or violations of this policy to the HR or Safety Department.
• The HR Department will maintain records of health and wellness program participation and compliance.

Review and Update

• This policy will be reviewed bi-annually and updated as needed to reflect changes in DOT regulations, industry standards, and best practices for health and wellness.

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The New Day Company, LLC believes that a healthy employee is a safe and productive employee. We are committed to providing a supportive environment that enables our drivers to achieve their best in health and wellness. Through this policy, we aim to enhance the quality of life for our employees and ensure the safety of our operations in accordance with DOT regulations.