10,000 French employees have for a few weeks had the right to a monetary premium for each kilometre travelled to get to work. The idea has resulted in new cyclists appearing on the scene.
25 Euro cents (or 36 cents Canadian). This is how much will be paid per kilometre to employees who go to work by bicycle in France. The kilometres travelled and the resulting premium’s are then added to each month’s pay. In the last month, 10,000 employees from 19 companies have had the opportunity to test this new effort to make active transportation attractive. Initiated by the government and financed by participating companies, the program’s trial will continue to December 2014. At the end of this period, the government will decide if the program merits being extended generally and whether to subsidize companies who wish to pursue the adventure.
Impact on health
But how does it work? Participating employees have to sign a contract of honour, committing to favour cycling as the means of transport for commuting to and from work. A meter is then installed on the bicycle to record their travel. So far, cyclists have been receiving an average premium of €60 (or $87) per month. This is a sum which has motivated new employees to opt for bicycle transportation. Participating companies are also finding benefits, already noting less time off for sickness, increased productivity and better relationships with employees who opt for this means of transportation.
Initiative in Canada
But how does it work? Participating employees have to sign a contract of honour, committing to favour cycling as the means of transport for commuting to and from work. A meter is then installed on the bicycle to record their travel. So far, cyclists have been receiving an average premium of €60 (or $87) per month. This is a sum which has motivated new employees to opt for bicycle transportation. Participating companies are also finding benefits, already noting less time off for sickness, increased productivity and better relationships with employees who opt for this means of transportation.
Initiative in Canada
In Canada, there is no general program. But there have been initiatives over the years. To adapt to the transportation habits of new generations and institute healthy life habits, many companies in various provinces have implemented incentive programs for cycling.
In Quebec, employers wishing to promote active transportation can refer to the “Operation Bike to Work” program by Vélo Québec. The organization offers educational tools and development advice (bike racks, showers, mechanical workshops, etc.). To date, the program has attracted nearly 2,000 companies, 75% of whom are located in the Montreal area.
More specifically in Vancouver, the ING Direct bank has invested in bicycles so its employees can use them for commuting to work and also for work-related appointments. The company also provides them a gym club package to have access to showers.
In Toronto, the Top Drawer Creative advertising agency was one of the first to encourage cycling by its employees. Since 2003, the company has agreed to reimburse $2 per day to employees who get to the office on two wheels. Today its premises are more distant and Top Drawer Creative has revised its package to $5 per day. Showers have been installed there as well as lockers and secure parking spaces.