Office Design With Wellness In Mind!
During the workweek, the office becomes, in many cases, a home away from home. Many employees spend at least half their waking hours there – logging in more time sitting in their chairs than sleeping in a bed each night. From office chairs to keyboards to even ceiling lights, companies have countless opportunities to link the design of employee workspaces and the overall office to wellness principles. For an office design that promotes wellness, keep the following items on your checklist:
Evaluate Ergonomics: 86% of U.S. workers report experiencing some discomfort from their office furniture and equipment.[1] The good news is that it’s often easy and cost-effective to foster a more comfortable office environment. By providing ergonomic options – such as chairs with multiple points of adjustability, adjustable height desks, ergonomic keyboards and monitor stands, etc. – companies can increase comfort and wellness in the workplace, and decrease potential worker compensation claims. In addition, providing education on ergonomic best practices – so your employees know how to properly use and adjust their equipment – is a free way to increase comfort and productivity.
The Longevity Project has partnered with Relax The Back in Miami and can offer free ergonomic assessments, discounts, and giveaways as well as expert advice and insight into several of the products available to help keep your employees in tip-top shape!
Examine Indoor Air Quality: You may not be able to see indoor air pollutants, but that doesn’t mean they should be ignored. In fact, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), levels of indoor air pollutants may be 2 – 100 times HIGHER than outdoor levels.[2] To avoid triggering or aggravating allergies, or other adverse reactions, your company can address the following areas to improved indoor air quality such as furniture, paints, and indoor plants.
A Bright Idea – Look at Your Lighting: You can improve visibility and worker morale, as well as reduce eye strain, by paying attention to interior lighting. In addition to elevating moods, access to natural light and daylight views can also help companies attain Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) tax credits. Light dimmers and automatic shut-off controls contribute to LEED credits as well, and help employees adjust lighting to their comfort level and preferences – also contributing to a healthier work environment.
The Longevity Project has relationships with electrical contractors who can provide an assessment as well as installation and service to improve your office lighting.
[1] “Time for an Ergonomic Touch-Up: Staples Survey Shows Office Ergonomics Can Improve Productivity and Well-Being” Staples Advantage.com, Feb. 17th, 2011 <http://staplesadvantage.com/about-us/news/ergo-touch-up.html>
[2] “Air and Radiation: Basic Information,” EPA.gov, May 1, 2012 <http://www.epa.gov/air/basic.html
