Section OneOn the other hand, employers that give smokers breaks to
leave the work area or the building may find that nonsmokers
feel that they are treated unfairly unless they receive equal
break time.^105
Another investment in human resources is also related to
health issues. Large numbers of companies have invested in
fitness centers and physical conditioning programs. Many claim
very positive returns for their investments. For example,
Mutual Benefit Life Insurance found that after it provided a
fitness center for its employees, the average number of
workdays missed by the facility’s users was 2.51 days and
annual medical claims were $313. In contrast, nonusers
averaged 4.25 missed workdays and medical claims of $1,086.
In addition to the fitness centers, the company established an
on-site health clinic. A return of two dollars for every dollar
invested is claimed, without counting increased morale.^106
There also are claims of other fitness-related outcomes. These
include better mental health, stress resistance, increased
commitment, increased productivity, lower absenteeism, and
lower turnover. Although the relationship between fitness and
health benefits has been well established, there are other
potential outcomes of fitness programs that have not been
adequately examined. More research is needed to determine
the relationship between fitness programs and productivity,
commitment, turnover, and absenteeism.^107