Ypres – Jan Yperman Hospital in Ypres has achieved the distinction of being Belgium’s first hospital to earn the gold Cycle Friendly Employer label, recognized for its secure bicycle parking, shower facilities, repair points, and awareness campaigns. The commitment of the hospital was underscored by director Cientia Cornille and auditor Eddy Vas, reports 24brussels.
According to VRT News, Jan Yperman Hospital is now the first healthcare institution in Belgium to receive the prestigious gold Cycle Friendly Employer (CFE) label, which is the top European accolade for bicycle-friendly workplaces.
“We provide ample secure bicycle parking, adapted racks for cargo bikes, charging stations for electric bikes, dedicated parking zones, and we even have a facility where staff can repair their bikes,” explains director Cientia Cornille.
How did Ypres’ Jan Yperman become Belgium’s first gold CFE hospital?
Auditor Eddy Vas noted the hospital’s exemplary efforts to encourage staff to cycle to work. He emphasized that while infrastructure involves a one-time investment, communication and awareness campaigns require ongoing resources. The hospital’s commitment to long-term programs reflects its dedication to promoting cycling among employees.
The Jan Yperman Hospital is taking significant steps to integrate cycling into the daily routines of its workforce. Laura Candale, who oversees the cycling policy, mentioned that cycling themes are continually featured in staff newsletters, providing safety tips, advice, and cycling-related stories.
The hospital also connects its cycling initiatives with broader events such as Fluo Day. In winter, it hosts a competition to reward the employee who cycles the most kilometers, ensuring engagement with the cycling initiative throughout the year.
“I’m glad the efforts are paying off,” says Candale.
“Half of our staff comes to work by bike at least once a week, and that’s good. It gives them a fresh start to their workday. Cycling is simply good for your health and the environment.”
Electrical engineer Brecht Lamaire is among those who benefit from the hospital’s cycling policy. He bikes 25 kilometers to work and returns home the same distance each day, totaling 50 kilometers. He noted that the available secure bike storage and shower facilities facilitate this routine.
Launched in 2017 by the European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF), the Cycle Friendly Employer (CFE) label aims to promote cycling in workplaces across Europe. In Belgium, the program is overseen by the Cyclists’ Union (Fietsersbond), which evaluates organizations based on their infrastructure, safety measures, communication efforts, and long-term policies.
Employers can receive a bronze, silver, or gold rating, with gold signifying the highest standards. As of 2024, over 100 Belgian employers have obtained the CFE label, but only a select few have achieved gold status. On August 30, 2024, Jan Yperman Hospital made history by becoming the first hospital in Belgium to receive this prestigious gold label.
