February Is Heart Month: Heart Health at Work

February is here, and it’s the perfect time to talk about heart health—both yours and your coworkers’. Since we spend so much of our day at work, why not make the workplace a heart-healthier place? After all, a happy heart is a healthy heart, and a healthy heart keeps you energized and productive!

So for Heart Month, here’s a quick dive into how you can keep your ticker in tip-top shape while at work and some safety and first aid preparedness tips to keep your team ready for anything.

Heart Month: Health Tips for the Workplace

1. Get Moving, Even at Your Desk
Sitting for long periods isn’t great for your heart. Try standing up every 30 minutes, taking a quick lap around the office, or doing simple desk exercises like seated leg lifts or stretches. Bonus: it helps with productivity too!

2. Snack Smart
Swap out those vending machine chips for heart-healthy snacks like almonds, walnuts, or fresh fruit. Keep some dark chocolate (70% or higher) on hand for when that sweet craving hits—it’s good for your heart in moderation.

3. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can strain your heart, so keep that water bottle handy. Set a timer if you need a reminder to sip throughout the day.

4. Manage Stress
Deadlines can be stressful, and stress isn’t great for your heart. Try deep breathing exercises, mindfulness apps, or even a 5-minute walk to clear your head.

5. Prioritize Breaks
Working through lunch or skipping breaks might seem productive, but it’s actually counterproductive for your heart. Use your breaks to relax, eat, or get some fresh air..

Workplace Safety & First Aid Preparedness for Heart Health

Being heart-conscious at work isn’t just about lifestyle changes. It’s also about being prepared for emergencies.

Here are some Heart Month must-haves and tips:

1. Have an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)
On-Site Time is critical during cardiac emergencies, and having an AED in your workplace can save lives. Make sure everyone knows where it’s located and how to use it. Regularly check that it’s in working order!

2. Stock Your First Aid Kit
A fully stocked first aid kit should include items like aspirin (to help with suspected heart attacks), nitrile gloves, and a CPR mask. These are small additions that can make a big difference.

3. CPR and AED Training for Employees
Training your team in CPR and AED use is a game-changer. Consider scheduling regular training sessions to ensure everyone feels confident stepping in during an emergency.

4. Emergency Action Plan
Does your workplace have a plan in case of a medical emergency? Make sure everyone knows what to do, who to call, and where to find essential equipment like the AED or first aid kit.

5. Promote Heart Health Awareness
Put up posters, send out emails, or host a wellness challenge to educate employees about heart health. Awareness is the first step toward prevention!

Heart-Healthy Supplies to Keep at Work

Portable AED: A must-have for any workplace.

First Aid Kit: Make sure it’s well-stocked and includes heart-specific items like aspirin.

Water Stations: Encourage hydration with accessible water dispensers.

Healthy Snack Options: Consider providing fruits, nuts, or whole-grain snacks in break rooms.

Stress Relievers: Simple tools like stress balls or a quiet space for relaxation can help.

Every month should be Heart Month: Make Heart Health a Priority

Heart health isn’t just about avoiding emergencies; it’s about creating a healthier environment where everyone can thrive. Small changes—like standing more, snacking smarter, and having the right safety supplies—can have a big impact.

So, as we celebrate Heart Month this February, take a moment to check in with yourself and your team. How can you make your workplace a healthier, safer space for everyone? Let’s get those hearts pumping…in a good way!

Here are some events across Canada for Heart Month: Events