Wellness at workplace is now a necessity rather than a choice. People may choose to work for organizations that value their well-being. Organizations rely on their teams for their growth, which is coherent with team(s) happiness and health. People are more likely to be productive in a workplace where ergonomics are considered while building it.
Why wellness is essential at the workplace?
As per the recent data statistics by ILO (International Labour Organisation) published in April 2023, Indians are the 6th most hardworking people putting in 47.7 hours a week in the office. People spend most of their day at the workplace, and the work environment significantly influences their health and well-being. A good workspace design helps reduce stress levels and anxiety, prevents injuries from wrong postures thus promoting a human centric environment at work.
Ergonomic Furniture and Employee Wellness
In the post pandemic era where people are returning to their office, organizations need to put their focus on fostering employee wellness. One often-overlooked aspect that significantly influences employee well being is office furniture. A recent report published online by the National Institute of Health in Nov 2023 talks about evaluating the ergonomic deficiencies in computer workstation and investigating the correlation of musculoskeletal disorder and visual symptoms. The report further concludes the lack of ergonomics due to the design layout and duration of use, suggesting the design layout and furniture should be carried out with ergonomic guidelines. In this article, we have curated specific information on how ergonomic furniture can enhance wellness and overall health at workplace.
Invest in an ergonomic chair for health benefits
Did you know that sitting for long hours is the most contributing factor to stress, obesity, anxiety and injury in workplaces today? An ergonomic chair not only supports your back but aligns with its natural posture reducing any pain coming out of lower back. Adjustable 4-dimensional arm rest with PU padding is yet another useful component which provides flexibility to different body types in aligning your arms in the right formation while keyboarding. Headrest provides the much-needed support for your neck. An uncomfortable chair will increase the chances of being less used by people and hence will lead to a less productive office environment. As you delve into choosing the best office furniture for your workspace, consider these Tips To Choose The Best Office Furniture. By selecting ergonomic solutions that prioritize comfort and support, you not only enhance employee well-being but also foster a productive and positive work environment.
Read at length about Ergonomic vs traditional office chair: which is right for you?
Get a height adjustable table
Height Adjustable tables are perfect for modern-day workspace culture. They prevent chronic discomfort, mainly supporting the spine and ensuring good posture. Sitting at desk for 6-8 hours a day in the office takes a toll on health and well-being. Sedentary behaviour at work negatively impacts job performance and correlates with higher levels of presenteeism. According to a “Smart Work and Life” programme clubbed with height adjustable desk conducted by the University of Leicester, the sitting time of the users were reduced by an hour a day, moreover the same users reported slight improvement in stress and well being. The research was aimed at providing evidence based tools to reduce sedentary behaviour and improve health and well being at workplace. Having height-adjustable tables in workplace not only helps to prevent back and neck pain but promotes better physical health resulting the people to be more energized and productive at work .
We recommend checking out our Hat series height adjustable table which ranges from manual to electric models which are BIFMA complaint and comes with up-to 5 year replacement warranty.
Create dedicated breakout zone
It is all about promoting good working habits and the breakout zones are precisely used to do do the same. In this article we have stressed on investing in an office chair for ergonomic benefits and stated the importance of the height adjustable table however, these products alone cannot boost your team’s productivity. Expecting employees to work continuously for 8 hours a day and 5 to 6 days in a week is impractical and hampers their well-being at work. Working on a desk without breaks can be physically and mentally draining. In a supportive work environment, the wellness of employees should be the top priority.
What is a breakout zone?
A breakout zone is a space in an office where individuals or teams can relax. These zones are designed to elevate moods, break the monotony, destress, initiate casual conversations, build working relationships and more. Informal furniture products such as puffs, ottoman, lounge chairs, sofa, pods are preferred while designing a breakout zone.
Fusion Furnish manufactures breakout area furniture and is equipped to assist designers, architects and end users in selections for tailored requirements.
Create a biophilic environment
The connection between people and their surroundings plays a pivotal role in shaping their emotions, abilities, and social interactions. Therefore, creating environments that stimulate, invigorate, and assist those who inhabit them is an essential workplace necessity. People’s affinity for nature known as biophilia, presents an opportunity for organisations to address this challenge. By Incorporating natural material in a workplace such as plants, colour patterns resembling nature, access to natural sunlight within the workplace reduces stress levels greatly.
The impact of office furniture on workplace wellness is multifaceted. From promoting physical health through ergonomic designs to fostering mental well being with mindful and technology-integrated furniture, the selection of office furniture significantly influences the overall wellness and productivity of teams. Investing in creating a workspace that prioritises comfort, functionality, adaptability, and sustainability not only supports employee well being but also contributes to a more engaged and motivated workforce, ultimately benefiting the organisation as a whole. As workplaces continue to evolve, acknowledging the pivotal role of office furniture in enhancing wellness is crucial for creating conducive environments where people thrive.
