Creating a Healthy Work Environment for Staff to Thrive
13 December 2018
Every office is different but the one thing they all have in common is the need to provide a healthy environment for employees. The quality of an office space is closely linked to staff productivity and thankfully there are a few steps employers can take to create a healthy work environment.
People tend to lose focus when distracted by clutter, noise and other office stressors. There are a few steps employers can take to ensure their employees feel as comfortable as possible while at work.
Casual Spaces for Workers
To minimise time spent at a desk, employees are seeking alternate spaces to work. A growing number of workplaces are now incorporating libraries, cafes and lounges into the office. Although, a cafe or library may not be a practical solution for all workplaces, an under-utilised area or spare room could be turned into a lounge or sitting area with the addition of seating, tables, high-backed lounges with break out chairs, sectional lounges with media consoles and privacy booths.
Minimise Office Clutter
A disorganised desk and workplace can lead to misplaced documents, lost information and increased stress. Don’t let clutter build up, instead try filing documents at the end of the day. APC has a number of commercial storage solutions designed to help reduce clutter including mobile shelving systems which provide a centralised storage solution, filing cabinets for storing large amounts of filing in a limited area, tambour door and sliding door cabinets for areas where hinged doors would impede access and workstation cabinets for under-desk storage.
Quieter Workspaces
Verbal communication is necessary for the workplace but for those who are trying to work independently, noise can pose a distraction. There are a number of ways noise in the workplace can be controlled:
- Furniture and plants can help absorb ambient sounds
- Carpet in bare areas like corridors can minimise noise
- Acoustic panels can be used to line rooms and communal areas
- Some furniture can be fitted with acoustic panels, such as APC’s Sliding Door Cabinet
Adaptable and Changeable Layout
Employees should have the option to customise and personalise their workspace in accordance with their needs, from changing the layout to adding new furniture. Furniture with castor wheels such as APC's mobile pedestals and mobile caddies are excellent because they can be moved easily.
Decorating and Colourful Design Options
We spend a large portion of our lives working – why not make it fun, innovative and creative. There are a few small changes you can make to your workplace to make it more exciting without breaking the bank.
- Add some wall art
- Create focal points
- Ensure the office is appropriately lit
- Add some plants and rugs
Another solution is to consider colourful furniture and decor, which can be used to engage employees and customers and can also be used to infuse company branding. APC’s range of commercial storage solutions are available in a wide variety of different colours.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics is the study of people and their working conditions, done in order to improve effectiveness. Ergonomics encompasses a variety of different aspects such as furniture and equipment arrangement, posture, activity, exercise, lighting, air, noise, organisation and breaks. Employers should develop an appropriate and holistic ergonomics plan to ensure employees are safe and productive.
Comfort is a huge factor in the overall productivity of employees and although it may not be possible for workplaces to implement all of the above on a "full-scale" level, simple things like minimising office clutter, adding some wall art, and developing an ergonomics plan should be achievable. When it comes to customised storage solutions, let APC take care of it. We can assist with all your current and future storage requirements even where space is limited. Contact us today!
