Offices and cubicles are not just places that everyone goes to every day to earn their bread and butter if not working remotely, they are practically second homes for many people. People spend a significant amount of time in these spaces, and it is important that they do not compromise on their health and wellbeing. However, most people do not realise that their workplace can pose a potential hazard for their health. In this blog, we are going to discuss the 5 surprising ways your office could be making you sick, and what you can do about it.
The Air Quality
Indoor air quality has a significant impact on employee health, and most people fail to realise how much of an impact could this have. Airborne contaminants can cause several health issues like allergies, headaches, and respiratory issues. Dust, mould, and bacteria can build up quickly, especially if the office is not regularly cleaned. Proper ventilation, air filtration systems, and regular cleaning can help improve indoor air quality.
Shared Office Spaces
Most people work in shared office spaces like cubicles or open-plan offices. While this boosts collaboration and helps people work together, it also puts employees at risk of catching infections. High-traffic areas like restrooms, break rooms, and shared desks host a lot of germs and bacteria which can easily spread from one employee to another.
Poor Desk Hygiene
Employees spend a large portion of their workday at their desks, and studies have shown that desk surfaces can harbour more germs than public toilets. These germs can be dangerous and can cause serious infections such as bacterial infections, flu virus, and E. Coli. Regular desk cleaning, avoiding eating or drinking at desks, and maintaining good hygiene are some of the ways to combat this problem.
Stress
Stress is a silent killer, and it can severely impact an employee’s physical and mental health, which is why it is essential to manage their stress levels. A recent study suggested that job burnout could raise the risk of atrial fibrillation, which can result in heart attacks and strokes. It is important that employees take regular breaks, maintain good work-life balance, and take time off if required.
Poor Lighting
Poor lighting in the workplace can cause headaches, eye strain, and stress, which can negatively impact productivity and work quality. Workers who spend a lot of time in front of their computer screens are particularly vulnerable to these health issues. Proper lighting can help reduce these risks, and using natural lighting sources can offer several health benefits such as improved mood, cognitive function, and stress reduction.
In conclusion your workplace can negatively impact your health in ways you never imagined. Poor air quality, shared office spaces, poor desk hygiene, stress, and poor lighting can all pose significant health risks. Fortunately, most of these risks can be eliminated by taking some proactive steps, such as cleaning regularly, making small changes to your work habits, and investing in employee health programs. Businesses and employees need to work together to create a healthy work environment that boosts productivity and creativity while promoting good health and wellbeing.
If you’d like more information on keeping your office clean, contact us.