Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Better Workplaces Tennessee?
Better Workplaces Tennessee (BWT) is an innovative, data-driven initiative designed to transform workplace culture for both employees and the people they serve. A collaboration between the Tennessee Department of Health and the Ballad Health Strong BRAIN Institute at East Tennessee State University, Better Workplaces Tennessee is committed to applying science-based research and training best practices to revolutionize organizational cultures, creating safer, more inclusive, and empowering work environments.
How does BWT support Tennessee employers?
Distinguished as the only Tennessee Department of Health-endorsed and university-driven workplace designation in the state, Better Workplaces Tennessee comes with several benefits, including but not limited to elevated employee wellness, mental and physical health leading to decreased sick days and reduced healthcare costs, an amplified sense of safety and security in the workplace resulting from improved collaboration, a better sense of belongingness, and more effective systems for feedback and organizational improvement.
Are BWT’s services free for Tennessee employers?
This initiative is entirely cost-free for organizations admitted to the program.
Does BWT offer certifications for workplace health and safety?
Yes, BWT offers certifications based on certain criteria and achievements during the recognition program. The certification is based on the three levels of recognition, namely the Silver, Gold, and Platinum, which require different progress rates from participating organizations.
What resources does BWT provide for mental health in the workplace?
BWT uses scientific-based resources to address mental health in the workplace, particularly by promoting the awareness and empirical study of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). We do this by promoting the development and dissemination of evidence-based practices that prevent, reduce, and mitigate the negative effects of ACEs on health and health disparities; thus promoting a trauma-informed workforce.
What types of organizations can benefit from BWT's services?
Small, medium, or large-scale organizations within Tennessee can benefit from this free program. It cuts across different sectors and industries. We’ve worked with healthcare organizations, academic institutions, and corporate institutions in the past, and we look forward to working with even more diverse industries. Reach out to BWP@etsu.edu to get started.
What specific programs does BWT offer?
The Better Workplaces Tennessee (BWT) Recognition program provides three levels of recognition, namely the Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels. The recognition program aims to cultivate a workplace culture that fosters a highly efficient and productive workforce.
How can employers participate in BWT’s initiatives?
Tennessee-based employers can reach out via BWP@etsu.edu to get started.
How does BWT help businesses improve workplace safety?
Through applying evidence-based workplace practices, BWT helps to revolutionize organizational cultures by creating safer, more inclusive, and empowering work environments. The program helps with elevated employee wellness; mental and physical health leading to decreased sick days and reduced healthcare costs; an amplified sense of safety and security in the workplace resulting from improved collaboration, belongingness, and effective systems for feedback and organizational improvement.
What is the process for scheduling a consultation with BWT?
The process for scheduling a consultation is seamless. Interested organizations can fill out the contact form on our website: https://www.betterworkplacestn.org/contact or reach out via BWP@etsu.edu to get an email response from the team. Ordinarily, the main application should originate from the head of an organization (e.g., Chief Operating Officer, Chief Executive Officer, Business Owner); however, inquiries are welcome from anyone. Interested stakeholders are welcome to book a consultation with us to learn more.
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