France — A comprehensive approach for the well-being of older workers in Solystic

Solystic specialises in postal sorting and distribution equipment, employing 450 people. Of the total workforce, 58 % are over 45, and 37 % have been employed by the company for 20 years or more. French legislation required Solystic, in 2009, to negotiate an agreement with social partners promoting the employment of older workers. In accordance with the government’s six priorities, it included annual ergonomic assessments, individual career planning for those over 45, working time flexibility (including protection of pension rights if reducing working hours) and managing retirement transitionsAs a result, sickness absence has reduced and there are, on average, occupational accident rates among older workers per year have decreased. The agreement is evaluated and adapted annually. Success factors include the legislative underpinning, targeting early interventions from 45 years of age and consistent evaluation and monitoring. The concept is transferable and the negotiation of targeted agreements is replicable, particularly for countries with social partner systems.