How to create a healthy workplace environment

It’s the place you spend most of your time so add wellness to your workplace by working on getting a healthy office and you’ll soon see the benefits. 

These days, most 'healthy' offices make an effort to tick at least a few of the boxes when it comes to the trend for wellbeing. Fresh fruit, free yoga and maybe even reflexology sessions, are all just some of the ways in which employers are trying to improve the lot of their workforce.

the cost of sick days

After all, looking after the health of employees makes sound financial sense. A recent study showed that Aussies take 90 million sick days every year, costing the economy $34.1 billion annually.

Research from Harvard University found that improving air quality boosted mental cognition and helped workers to be more productive. Not only that, of course, but a healthy office means a happier worker – and one who is less likely to take sick leave.

That’s why architects, who have for years focused on creating buildings that are kind to the planet, are now also intent on planning work places that are kind to the people in them. In the United States, they have gone so far as to introduce a certification program called the Well Building Standard. Based on medical research, it shows how buildings can affect our health – and how to improve our surroundings.

 

how to create a healthy office

Of course, you don’t have to be an architect to make a healthy office. There are simple, cost-effective ways to ensure a healthy workplace:

1. Provide Access to Clean Water: Install a BIBO Water Bar in your office so all employees can access fresh pure great tasting water always. By having instant, hot and cold, filtered and purified water in seconds, it will keep your office staff happier, healthier and more productive. It has a unique filtration and purification system which removes most contaminants and kills bugs, leaving the purest drinking water.

2. Encourage Physical Activity: Encourage regular breaks for stretching or short walks, and consider offering incentives for participating in physical activities like lunchtime walks or office yoga sessions.

3. Promote Healthy Eating Habits: Offer healthy snacks and beverages in the office kitchen, and encourage nutritious eating habits by providing information on healthy meal options and portion sizes.

4. Create Ergonomic Workstations: Invest in ergonomic furniture and equipment to promote good posture and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal issues among your team members.

5. Support Mental Health: Provide access to mental health resources and support services, and encourage open conversations about mental well-being in the workplace.

6. Offer Flexible Work Arrangements: Allow flexible work hours or remote work options to accommodate the diverse needs of your team members and promote work-life balance.

7. Promote Stress Management Techniques: Provide resources and workshops on stress management techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation exercises.

8. Encourage Regular Breaks: Encourage employees to take regular breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge, and discourage working through lunch or staying late unnecessarily.

9. Foster a Positive Work Environment: Create a supportive and inclusive work culture where team members feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best work.

10. Lead by Example: Demonstrate your commitment to health and wellness by prioritizing your own well-being and modeling healthy behaviours for your team.