at the workplace HELMUT MILZ* Consultant, Health Promotion Programme, WHO European Office SUMMARY

Based on a socio-ecological and holistic approach to health, the paper reviews recent strategies of health promotion at the workplace. Health promotion programmes in major North American companies, which are mainly centred around individual behaviour changes and communi-cation skills are discussed critically from a European perspective. Specific attention is given to stress management, movement education, and the detection of toxic substances. The possible cumulative effects of structural and organizational stressors, psycho-social factors and individual vulnerability on the health of employees are emphasized. The author argues for a comprehensive, holistic approach to health promotion, which may enabl