Research shows that offices designed with wellbeing in mind can play a crucial role in improving job performance, employee engagement, recruitment and retention, and in reducing absenteeism. Injecting wellness into your workspaces is an be inexpensive and highly effective. Here are six ways to make your workspace healthier and more productive.
1. Keep people active
This could be as simple as offering standing desks to anyone who wants one, or en- couraging people to use the stairs with a few carefully thought-out signs and a lick of paint. You could also install showers and lockers so those who walk or bike to work – and those who work out at lunchtime – can shower.
2. Buy some office plants
Although it’s probably the cheapest recommendation on this list, adding a plant to your desk will do wonders for your health. Certain plants can even filter out toxins from the air and improve humidity levels, making them the perfect natural air conditioner.
3. Get the temperature right
Temperature has a significant impact on workplace satisfaction and is one of the most common causes of complaints among office workers. If employees have issues (such as drafty windows, vents blowing etc) you should ask them to put in writing the problems they are experiencing. As an employer you can then address these issues and feedback to the employee in a timely manner.
4. Let in some daylight
Daylight has a major influence on our mood and general mental health. If pos- sible, everyone should work with some natural light – or at least have access to naturally lit common areas.
5. Bring in fresh air
A well-ventilated office, which has low levels of indoor pollutants and carbon dioxide, can significantly improve cognitive function and reduce illness .
6. Make it comfy
A large body of research has been done about the impact of office chairs, desk height, keyboard trays and appropriate phone usage on employee com- fort and health. Companies should give thought to furniture design and how it fits the needs of employees and their work habits. At a minimum, survey your staff to assess what they need to be more comfortable and make sure they know how to adjust their furniture.
See the full article at http://www.cipd.co.uk/pm/peoplemanagement/b/weblog/archive/2016/09/05/ six-ways-to-inject-wellness-into-your-workplace.aspx?