Spain – Measures to retain experienced workers at ISS Facility Services

ISS Facility Services provide facility and property management services. Of 29,835 employees, 1,834 are entitled to senior benefits. The work is physically and mentally demanding so measures targeting the health of older workers were introduced based on collective agreements with trade unions. This was to reduce costs due sickness absence and retain experienced workers among administration and building-maintenance staff. External consultants conducted an age-structure analysis, leading to the introduction of medical tests for over 55s, workplace adaptations/transfers and preferential rights for flexible working/redundancy for older workers. Managers and all workers over 55 attended occupational health training, with further leadership coaching planned. Staff performance and loyalty have improved, while sickness-absence has reduced. Success factors included stakeholder and top management involvement, diversity of measures and external support. Challenges were experienced in implementing changes in client companies and in the limited involvement of workers in programme design. Similar measures are transferable to other companies, particularly health vigilance in physically-demanding work environments and preferential rights for older workers.