It was December 25, 2017, and Santa had just returned to his home in the North and was not his usual cheery Christmas morning self.
“What’s the matter?” asked Mrs. Claus.
“It’s the size of this job!” replied Santa. “The presents get bigger, heavier, and more abundant every year. The chimneys are getting smaller, sitting in the sleigh hurts my back, the cookies are popping my pant buttons, and even the elves are putting themselves at too much risk to make and wrap all these presents. All it would’ve taken was one more injury claim and we would have missed the deadline for giving those wonderful children their best smiles of joy and laughter.”
“Sounds like you need some E.W.I.” said Mrs. Claus.
“E.W.I.? What’s that?” asked Santa.
“Ergonomics, Wellness, Innovation,” replied Mrs. Clause. “It’s the new slogan for EWI Works, and it’s exactly what this operation needs to keep smiles on those wonderful kids faces.”
Ergonomics. Wellness. Innovation.
As usually happens at the North Pole, Mrs. Claus’ suggestion was put into action. As COM (chief operating mother) of the North pole, she left no stone unturned.
She began with plant upgrades. No longer would elves have to reach too high or too low. Height-adjustable workstations now allowed each elf to keep the work right in front of them. Overhead cranes and improved robotics meant the elves would no longer lift things too heavy. Improved automation gave elves more time for quality control and present selection.
Next, she focused on Santa. “The chimneys aren’t smaller. You’re just bigger” she scolded. She enrolled Santa, the elves, and the reindeer, in EWI Work’s new wellness initiative, CHIP (Complete Health Improvement Program). In less than 3 months, the weight had come off and the reindeer games were more fun.
She didn’t stop there. When enrolling in courses, she found EWI Works had online solutions for both office and industrial elves. When they finished those courses, production went up and injuries went down! They rounded out this training with stretches and break reminders. Yes, the elves truly worked better for that employer who cares!
They finished things off with improved vehicle upgrades. The sleigh seat was adjusted, and new cup holders added. The cargo hold was improved. The sleigh now included ramps and lifts to make heavy things easy.
“Yes, 2018 will be the best Christmas ever!” fit Santa exclaimed. “Who knew that Ergonomics, Wellness, Innovation would bring presents acclaimed!”
Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year, from all of us at EWI Works.
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