The benefits of a safe and healthy office are just too huge to be ignored. Implementing workplace safety and health initiatives in the office not only brings about enhanced productivity and better bottom lines but also helps to resolve human resource management problems such as sickness absence, high employee turnover, and high absenteeism.
To begin, risks faced by employees at every stage of their work should be identified and then evaluated by designated risk personnel. Although the risks or hazards in a work environment may vary with the type of industry and job nature, it’s important for the company to take stock of potential risks that occur and then to come up with counter measures.
Common physical hazards include deafening noise, risks of fire outbreaks, and poor ergonomics whether in job design or in the chairs we sit where employees assume bad postures, potentially harming their backs as a result. Then, there’re electrical hazards like risks of electric shock from congested power points whereas chemical hazards might be more apparent in the heavy industries where workers are probable to deal with substances that are flammable and toxic.
And ever since the advent of the digital age, employees now spend longer time tweeting and uploading content using their mobile phones, computers, iPads, and other electronic gadgets, resulting in further health issues like eye strain, neck and back problems, and work stress (since you can work anywhere now).
Failing to address these problems would pose more harm than good to the company. Implementing health and safety measures could create a congenial environment, promoting employees’ health and well-being greatly. An interior company accredited with BizSafe certification like Kyoob-ID can also help companies to reduce potential hazards in the workplace design. Some
general ideas to incorporate into the work space include:
- Lighting
Although dim lighting can create a soft and friendly ambience but it may also cause eye strain and the failure to concentrate. Long-term working in such dim conditions can cause eyesight problems in the long run. Adequate lighting is hence crucial for staff to see clearly and concentrate in order to carry out specific job tasks and to work effectively.
Desktop lamps may be provided to supplement the existing lighting; they can also act as a cost-reducing measure. Companies can also opt to install full-height windows to bring in the day light, brightening the office by leaps. Kyoob-ID’s lofty unit at the first floor for instance comprises 4-metre high windows, enabling massive swathes of natural light to flow in during working hours. To minimise glare, individual blinds may be installed for staff.
- Flooring
Get flooring that are slip-resistant and easy to clean. Polished concrete flooring is a safe bet. Carpets provide an instant posh look to the interior but may trap dust and dirt more easily. Regular cleaning and vacuuming is needed to upkeep their cleanliness, and to prevent releasing allergens into the air, causing respiratory problems in some cases. There’re however carpets that are sustainably manufactured; these contain natural fibres with little or no chemical treatment.
- Thermal environment
Temperature that is too low or high does not produce a comfortable working environment and in some cases may affect work performance. The ideal thermal comfort is when one feels neither warm nor cold in normal clothes. A too humid or dry office can cause poor air quality resulting in skin rashes and breathing problems for some.
- Ergonomics
Get ergonomic furniture that allows adjustment to varying heights for optimal comfort. Knee space, seat height, and elbow space are some considerations in the design of a work space. Provide plenty of room to manoeuvre within the work space. In addition, provide for space and avenue for staff to vacate their seats every now and then.
- Plants
Indoor environments are known to contain more pollutants coming from paints, furniture finishing, and carpets. Having indoor plants and landscaping can help to reduce the allergens in the air, improve the air quality, and provide a more conducive work environment. |
