The enthusiasm for running is strong among employees at Bilfinger's site in Porsgrunn. Yarastafetten, Rocket-Run, and Grenlandsløpet are just a few examples of fun runs with significant participation from Bilfinger's staff.
"We have many activities going on, and one of them is running," explains Stål Wik Sture. He is the Assistant HSE Manager at Bilfinger, leader of the company sports team at Herøya Industrial Park, and head of the company's health and wellness group in Porsgrunn.
Bilfinger aims to encourage activity. Therefore, the company covers the entry fees for fun runs organized by Telemark Corporate Sports Association. "We have also supported participation outside the county," says Wik Sture. "Not long ago, we received a request from two employees who were traveling to Haugesund. They asked if we would cover the entry fee for the Pink Ribbon Run that was taking place while they were in the city. Of course, we did."
Several of Bilfinger Norway's sites focus on activities and exercise in various forms. "In Porsgrunn, we have a range of wellness activities," says Sture. "We want our people to be healthy and fit. Among other things, we organize yoga and draw prizes for employees who complete the 'Ten Peaks Challenge' in Grenland. This is a low-threshold initiative that involves climbing at least one of ten selected mountain peaks in our local area. We also draw prizes for the 'Bike to Work' campaign and support several other activities. The goal is for people to stay active and find good, social arenas outside of work."
Previously, the companies at Herøya Industrial Park sponsored the company sports team with a fixed amount per employee. Now, activities are sponsored instead. "This way, we reach new groups, including those who don't want to participate in organized team sports," explains Sture. "It has been successful, and we see that activity is being created on many fronts. Running is now very popular, and we are pleased with the participation in various running events. I am focused on the health aspect of HSE work. That doesn't mean you have to run from Oslo to Bergen. It's just as good to go on a hike or participate in yoga. Low-threshold initiatives help us involve more people," Sture concludes.
