Bicycling Guide for Employers

Reasons Your Employees Should Bike to Work

1. Reduced Health Care Costs

According to the Centers for Disease Control, moderate physical activity (such as biking to work) saves 5 to 12 percent in annual medical costs, compared with a 6.5 percent savings from employees who don' t smoke. The fitness program at General Electric’s Aircraft Engine unit saves an estimated $540,000 annually, including 760 fewer hospital days per year.

2. Decreased Absenteeism & Turnover

A study by the National Center for Health Statistics found that physical activity is one of the few factors that have a statistically significant effect on absenteeism. Physically fit employees are absent an average of two fewer days per year.

3. Increased Productivity

Bicyclists and walkers arrive at work with less stress than those who commute by automobile. The Berkeley Wellness Letter reports that chronic exposure to traffic congestion produces an increase in baseline blood pressure, lowering of frustration tolerance, increases in negative mood, and aggressive driving habits. In contrast, bicyclists and walkers often report feeling relaxed and more alert after arriving at work, ready for a more productive day.

4. Reduced Parking Costs

It is not unusual for employers to spend over $60 per employee per month for a parking spot. At over $800 per year per employee, considerable savings can be achieved when employees use alternative means of getting to work. The table below illustrates the potential parking savings.

 

 

  Auto Parking vs. Bike Parking Average Cost Comparison

Auto Parking for 12 Employees

Bike Parking for 12 Employees

Initial cost of 12 parking spaces:

$40,000 - $100,000

Cost of 12 bike rack parking spaces ($1,300) and one auto space ($3,300-$8,300)

$4,300 - $9,600

Initial savings for Bicycle Lockers: $37,000 - 90,000