Did you know your work environment can actually make you sick?

The affects of airconditioning

Research has shown that airconditioning can cause allergies, respiratory infections, asthma, fatigue and headaches. And that's just a few things.

If you don't believe me, have a look at what some of your workmates keep in their desk drawers.

You'll find many of them keep enough pills and potions on hand to stock a pharmacy! In fact you could probably set up a special area in your organisation just for this.

What about computers?

Then we've got the excessive use of computers, where you have to sit down and stare at the screen for extended periods of time. This alone can cause postural problems ie. sore back, neck and wrists and of course eyestrain.

Are you an excessive laptop user?

The laptop is a particular area of concern as many people tend to use it as their main pc.

"John", a management consultant had recently spent six weeks off work as a direct result of his regular use on the laptop.

He would use it for hours at a time. Being constantly hunched over it to type as well as having a poorly designed chair all contributed to John's situation. He was also overweight and didn't do any regular exercise. His back could not cope. John estimated he had lost $50,000 worth of business! If he had been aware of this, he could have spoken with the organisation he was contracted to and looked at other options.

Don't forget the support staff

The admin/support staff are often the last people in an organisation who are given the right tools and environment to work in.

Often the senior executives or managers are able to invest in any item known to mankind and the poor old admin people who are in the office all day long have to settle for a crappy old chair or sit in an area which is poorly lit and has a lovely view of the wall. How productive would anyone be in this situation?

Does your office look good?

Pay attention to the office dcor. Does it look old and drab or modern and alive? Is it clean and uncluttered or does it look like a volcano has erupted? Not only will this affect your performance but also on how others see you and your department. ie. A clean, modern environment portrays an organised and "with it" organisation.

Summary

Provide your team with a positive environment to work in and you will experience less absenteeism, improved moral and increased productivity. Look after your people and they will be more inclined to think twice about leaving your organisation

Lorraine Pirihi