As more employees are transitioning out of their work-from-home lifestyles and starting to return to the office, it’s important to find ways to keep them safe and healthy. In addition to simply wanting what is best for your employees, creating a healthier environment for employees can benefit your business in several ways. For example, healthy employees are typically more productive, are absent less frequently, and are more motivated. As such, it is in your best interest—as well as your employees’—to create the healthiest and safest environment possible. To do so, follow these helpful tips on how to create a healthy work environment for employees.
Reduce noise pollution in the office
When people think about creating a healthier work environment, a crucial factor that often goes overlooked is the effect of noise pollution. When people are exposed to noise—even seemingly low levels—for a long period of time, they can start to experience several negative health impacts.
Examples of health issues that can result from prolonged exposure to noise pollution include cognitive impairment, tinnitus, hearing loss, migraines, increased blood pressure, and even cardiovascular disease. To help reduce noise pollution in your office, consider implementing sound-absorbing and -blocking materials such as acoustic mesh panels, mineral wool insulation, and acoustical ceiling tiles into its design.
Create ergonomic workstations
Another way to create a healthy work environment for employees is by creating ergonomic workstations. Many of the most common workplace injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, back strain, and tendonitis, are the result of poor office ergonomics. If your employees spend the majority of their day hunched over or sitting at awkward angles, it is likely only a matter of time before they start experiencing such health complications.
By creating optimized ergonomic workstations, you can help prevent common repetitive stress and musculoskeletal disorder injuries from developing. Examples of ways you can improve office ergonomics include providing employees with standing desks, adjustable ergonomic chairs, footrests, and suitable task lighting as well as educating employees on proper office ergonomics.
Reduce the presence of indoor air pollutants
Similar to noise pollution, long-term exposure to indoor air pollutants can also end up having a significant negative impact on employee health. Common indoor air pollutants include dust, pollen, mold spores, and volatile organic compounds.
When employees continuously inhale such pollutants, they may start to experience headaches, fatigue, and dizziness and may eventually develop respiratory disorders or diseases. To improve the air quality in your office building and allow your employees to breathe more easily, consider upgrading your office’s ventilation system, change air conditioning filters regularly, and make sure that all air vents are free of obstructions.
