Betriebliche Gesundheitsförderung (BGF) and Betriebliches Gesundheitsmanagement (BGM) are often used interchangeably. This article explains workplace health promotion and its wider management framework, and how organizations in Austria and Germany can combine them.
Key points
- BGF covers specific health promotion activities. BGM provides the strategic framework for coordination.
- Austria and Germany have different legal frameworks and funding routes.
- Individual activities can provide a starting point, with an overarching framework supporting coordination and review.
- Digital tools support both specific activities and broader Corporate Health management.
Understanding the terminology
BGF describes specific workplace health promotion measures, such as movement activities, ergonomic design, stress management workshops or balanced cafeteria options.
BGM is the broader framework for planning, delivery and evaluation of workplace health-related activities. BGF is one component within it.
A practical distinction: BGF describes the activities; BGM describes their strategic coordination.
The Austrian framework
Austria's ÖGK supports companies with planning and delivering health promotion. BGF complements occupational safety through a participatory health process. Advice and financial project funding are separate; check current program availability.
The Austrian workplace health promotion network's BGF quality seal recognizes systematic health promotion. It can document an organization's approach for employer communications.
The German framework
Germany distinguishes individual prevention under section 20 SGB V from workplace health promotion under section 20b. Eligible additional employer benefits may qualify for an annual tax exemption up to €600 under section 3 no. 34 EStG. This is not a flat insurer subsidy.
Eligibility depends on the specific activity and requirements. Not every health offer automatically qualifies; check recognition before booking.
Specialized platforms such as FIT-UP can support implementation. Explore the Corporate Health platform.
Examples of workplace health promotion
Activities can address different areas:
- Movement: step challenges, workplace back exercises and company sport.
- Nutrition: varied snacks, water stations and nutrition talks.
- Mental wellbeing: mindfulness, stress management and resilience workshops.
- Ergonomics: adjustable desks, suitable visual aids and ergonomic advice.
- Connection: team activities, outings and mentoring.
The number of activities matters less than their fit with workplace needs and actual use.
When do individual activities need a wider framework?
A step challenge or back workshop can provide a manageable introduction where systematic health planning is new. Review the experience before expanding.
A management framework helps when you want to:
- Coordinate ongoing health activities.
- Assess absence trends as part of a broader workplace review.
- Make health a strategic management topic.
- Coordinate and evaluate several activities.
The transition is gradual. Many organizations begin with individual offers and develop a wider framework over time.
Digital support for health promotion and management
Digital platforms can simplify individual activities and broader coordination by offering:
- Activities brought together in one place.
- Access through smartphones or desktop browsers.
- Suitable aggregate management reports.
- Availability across multiple locations.
Digital services can fit different stages of development, from one challenge to a wider program. Explore FIT-UP's platform options.
Who is this for?
This article is for HR, People and Culture teams and management in Austria and Germany choosing a workplace health approach.