DANZER BLOG

When does a company thrive? When its people thrive, of course! This is one of our core beliefs at Danzer – and the foundation of our sustainable success. Just as strong roots ensure a tree’s longevity, a healthy workplace lays the groundwork for long-term value.

We are delighted that our commitment to workplace health promotion has now been officially recognized. At a ceremony in Salzburg, Danzer Veneer Europe was awarded the prestigious BGF Quality Seal for the period 2025 to 2027

This certification marks an important milestone in our continuous efforts to foster a healthy work environment. BGF stands for Workplace Health Promotion (“Betriebliche Gesundheitsförderung”) and is awarded by Austria's largest social health insurance provider ÖGK (“Österreichische Gesundheitskasse”) in collaboration with Austrian Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care, and Consumer Protection as well as Health Austria GmbH and Healthy Austria Fund.

Why Workplace Health Promotion Matters to Us
At Danzer, we view workplace health promotion as an essential part of our ethical responsibility as an employer. Our health initiatives are deeply rooted in our corporate values , employee-centricity, long-term commitment, responsibility, innovation, and excellence. They also align with the Danzer Code of Conduct, which explicitly addresses people’s rights as well as health and safety standards.

“By continuously investing in health initiatives, we create a long-term framework that supports the physical, mental, and social well-being of both employees and executives,” says Ulrike Mühlbacher, responsible for Finance & HR at Danzer Veener Europe in Grödig. “Workplace health management is also a powerful tool for strengthening communication and team cohesion, which in turn boosts employee satisfaction.” Danzer’s goal is to foster team motivation and reduce absences or sick days.

What Measures We Have Taken
At Danzer, workplace health management is not a one-time initiative—it’s a comprehensive and ongoing commitment. Like a well-crafted piece of woodwork, every detail matters. Our approach focuses on three key areas:

#1 Personal Health-Related Seminars

We offer a variety of health-focused programs, including:

• Smoking cessation seminars to support employees in quitting tobacco use.
• Healthy nutrition courses to encourage balanced and informed dietary choices.
• First aid courses to equip employees with essential life-saving skills.
• BIA measurements (“Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis”)for body composition analysis, helping employees track their physical health.
• Fire extinguisher training to enhance workplace safety awareness.
• Back fitness classes to improve posture and prevent back pain caused by prolonged sitting.

#2 General Workplace Improvements

“A healthy workplace goes beyond seminars—it also includes spaces that foster relaxation and interaction”, says Ulrike Mühlbacher from Danzer Veener Europe. To enhance well-being, Danzer has introduced a relaxation room with lounge chairs, giving employees a quiet space to unwind. We also put up a public foosball table (“Tischkicker”) encouraging social interaction and providing a playful way for stress relief during breaks.

#3 External Health Consulting

To gain fresh insights and expertise, Danzer also collaborates with AUVA, Austria's largest accident insurance provider (“Allgemeine Unfallversicherungsanstalt”). The partner offers ergonomic consulting, ensuring that workstations and workflows are designed to prevent health issues and support long-term well-being of Danzer’s employees

What Our Employees Say

Our workplace health initiatives have been met with overwhelmingly positive feedback from employees. “These programs are not only being used but are also highly valued,” says Ulrike Mühlbacher. “They actually reinforce our belief that investing in workplace health increases employee engagement, satisfaction, and retention.” The enthusiastic responses motivate Danzer to continue making employee well-being a top priority.

Looking Ahead: A Lasting Commitment to Health and Well-Being

The BGF seal is valid from 2025 to 2027 – but our commitment to create healthy workplaces goes far beyond that. Aligned with our core values, sustainability, innovation, and excellence, we are shaping a healthier, happier, and more productive workforce.

Beyond its internal impact, workplace health management also plays a key role in external communication. “It strengthens our employer branding strategy and positions us as an attractive company in a competitive labor market,” says Daniel Lechner, Head of Marketing at Danzer AG. Workplace health management truly creates a win-win situation: good for employees, good for Danzer. Because only together we can truly thrive. Or, as we say in the hardwood industry: develop roots and grow.

photo credit: ÖGK/APA-Fotoservice/Neumayr