How to create a healthy and productive environment in the office?
Office spaces are already for a long time not just a place to perform work tasks, but they are becoming an important factor that affects the physical and mental health of employees. After all, we spend more time at work than at home, so it is inevitable that we feel comfortable there. It is also very easy to get sick at work, thus it is important for companies to follow the right hygiene principles, too. According to studies, companies that motivate employees to follow hygiene principles, can reduce the risk of work absences due to sickness by up to 45%.
How to promote healthy sitting at work?
Ergonomic office equipment, such as height-adjustable desks, ergonomic chairs or footrests, helps prevent health problems and improves overall comfort at work. The possibility to alternate between sitting and standing is also important for reducing the risk of back pain and promoting an active lifestyle.
Healthy office, healthy air
A good ventilation system and sufficient natural light have a direct effect on the concentration and overall well-being of employees. Clean air with optimal humidity contributes to reducing tiredness and improving cognitive abilities. Correct lighting is equally important and it should be a combination of natural and artificial light, adapted to various work activities.
Mental well-being
In addition to physical health, it is also essential to take care of the mental well-being of employees. Quiet zones for relaxation, green elements in offices or the possibility of working from different parts of the office provide a more comfortable environment that promotes creativity and reduces stress. Also, offering therapies or massages is a much desired benefit in modern society.
Communication is fundamental
Healthy communication is inevitable to create a pleasant atmosphere and less fluctuation in your company. Therefore, the open door policy is an essential tool in management where problems are being communicated and solved. Transparent and open relationships between employees and management establish trust, promote cooperation and improve overall company culture.
Sharing is caring
Organizing regular breakfasts together where the best employee is recognized every month or the team's achievements are celebrated together, encourages team spirit and creates a sense of fellowship. Breakfasts can include healthy meals such as fruit bowls, homemade baked goods or yogurt cups with granola.
Shared plant care
Collective care of plants such as herbs (basil, mint, rosemary) or undemanding indoor plants (sansevieria, pothos, philodendron) creates a pleasant atmosphere and enhances employee engagement. A terrace with the possibility of growing vegetables or fruits such as strawberries can be another step towards building community spirit.
Workplace hygiene principles
Good hygiene regime not only ensures physical well-being, but also contributes to the overall productivity of employees.
Regular sanitizing of surfaces - Surfaces that are frequently touched, such as door handles, desks, computers and telephones, should be sanitized regularly to reduce the risk of bacteria and viruses transmission. This precaution is especially important during flu and respiratory illnesses season.
Personal hygiene and hand washing - Employees should be motivated to wash their hands regularly, especially after using the restroom and before eating. At workplaces, hygiene items such as soap, sanitizing gel or wet wipes should be available.
Safe use of shared areas - Kitchens, restrooms and meeting rooms are most at risk of contamination. Companies should ensure regular maintenance and cleaning of these areas and pay attention that employees follow personal hygiene principles when using them.
Promoting healthy habits - Companies can promote hygiene also through educational initiatives that inform employees about the importance of hygiene principles and the correct approach to disease prevention. Creating an environment where hygiene principles are communicated on a regular basis helps to ensure that they are followed.
Investing in a healthy and clean working environment pays back to companies in the form of increased productivity, lower absenteeism rates and higher employee satisfaction. Modern offices that emphasize health are not just places to work, but also places where employees can feel comfortable and motivated.
If you would like to know what other benefits employees will appreciate in 2025, read our article here.
