Four easy steps to improve wellbeing in the workplace - Niki Fuchs in Work in Mind

The average UK office employee will spend 10,000 days at work.

With so much of this time inside an office, it is no surprise that the physical environment of the office can take its toll on physical and mental wellbeing.

Workplaces are evolving to take account of this, with the introduction of flexible working and also technological innovations to make the working day a bit easier. Research consistently points to the fact that employees who believe their heath is being prioritised by a business are more easily attracted and retained.

In a recent article with Work in Mind, Managing Director at OSiT, Niki Fuchs, discusses the small changes that can make the biggest difference to improve employee wellbeing for the better.

Lighting – office lighting can have a significant impact on employee health and productivity. Too little light and there is a need to add desk lamps, alternatively glare from windows makes it impossible to read computer screens. Furthermore, including sources of natural light in the office helps to reduce headaches, eyestrain and drowsiness by up to 50% - making a clear case for the importance of investing in well-designed office lighting.

Fresh air – poor air quality can contribute to employee fatigue and loss of focus, as well as other health and respiratory problems. However, light good lighting, good air quality can positively impact productivity. Air purifiers or filtration systems can help to remove harmful impurities and pollution, while circulating fresh air. Additionally, plants and greenery in the office also help to create cleaner air … and a pleasant working environment.

Temperature – one of the most contentious issues in the office is often the room temperature, with some employees feeling the heat and others wanting the thermostat turned up. Employees who feel comfortable are less likely to be distracted and better able to focus on their job. Smart client control technology now allows for temperatures to be maintained consistently at optimum levels.

Noise - Modern offices have transitioned to more open and airy designs, however, there is a risk that privacy and noise levels are compromised as a result. It can be hard to concentrate if your train of thought is constantly being interrupted by a colleague’s conversation near your desk. In open plan offices it’s important to ensure sound absorbent materials are present and private, quiet spaces are available to employees as alternative places to work.

You can read her full article  here