When you’re working at an office at least eight hours a day, five days a week, it’s safe to say it’s practically your home. With this much time spent in an environment, it’s not unreasonable to expect that it should be comfortable and clean. After all, healthy and happy employees are the most productive. So it’s unfortunate that many people suffer from pain, aches and illnesses that stem from their jobs and work environments. While modular office furniture helps in reducing work-related strains and allows people to work while standing, there’s one important thing that is often overlooked: the air.
Thankfully, indoor air quality has become a health and safety concern over the years as more folks spend time indoors, specifically at work. It’s also an important issue to be aware of as it’s been shown that indoor air can be two to five times as polluted as outdoor air according to the EPA. That’s due to the fact that contaminants are able to build up and produce within a contained area. Several factors can contribute to poor indoor air quality such as:
- Mold
- Dust
- Ventilation System Problems
- Uncleaned Office Furniture (mold & dust)
- Materials used in the Building
- Cleaning Chemicals
What Poor Indoor Air Quality Can Do to You
You might be wondering how this can affect you. When working in an office with poor indoor air quality for so long, most people tend to report that they’ve experienced these symptoms: dizziness, nausea, headache, fatigue and dryness and irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and skin. These symptoms may go away after leaving the office. Some people may experience symptoms more severely than others (or not at all).
There are ways to help improve or achieve good indoor air quality. Some solutions may require the help from professionals or outside vendors, but employees and managers can all pitch in to do a couple of tweaks within the office too.
Clean & Maintain the Workspace and Office Furniture
To prevent indoor air contaminants from forming, make sure that the entire workspace, office workstations and office furniture is cleaned routinely. Regular cleaning of the office helps to prevent the growth of contaminants such as bacteria, molds and dust. If cleaning services aren’t provided within your building, hiring a cleaning service for your office would be beneficial.
Don’t Neglect the Office Plants
When taken care of properly, plants can clean the air and absorb contaminants. Water them regularly (but not too much or else mold can develop) and make sure to dust the leaves and pot off. If fake plants are the fixtures in the office, toss them out as they’re prone to collecting dust. Consider decorating the workplace with indoor plants such as peace lilies or weeping figs. These plants will keep the air fresh and add some beauty within the office.
Keep the Lunch Area Clean
No one wants to work in an environment riddled with pests and rodents. To avoid that, strive to keep the work kitchen and eating area clean. Ensure that garbage is thrown away immediately and that any office snacks are properly sealed and stored to avoid attracting bugs. That might mean reminding colleagues and employees to clean up after themselves.
Let Air Flow Into the Office
If you’re lucky to have windows that you can open and close in the office, use them! Open any doors or windows to get some fresh outdoor in, even if it’s just for a while. Many people barely get fresh outdoor air in their daily lives, so prop those windows open when you can.
Ensure the Ventilation System is Working Properly
The purpose of a ventilation system is to provide air at ideal temperature and humidity levels without high concentrations of pollutants. However, if it’s been poorly maintained, a ventilation system can very well do the opposite. For example, pollutants such as cigarette smoke and exhaust from cars can travel and be picked up by the air intakes, which may then be circulated throughout the office. Addressing this issue is something that a building manager would have to investigate.
Everyone should feel safe, comfortable and healthy in their work environment. While that can mean different things for each individual, the air quality within an office is a factor that shouldn’t be overlooked as it affects a person’s overall health and productivity.
