Consistent office temperatures are among the most important factors in maintaining productivity, according to a survey of UK workers.
BRITA Professional found comfortable office space is key to a healthy, happy workforce. Varying temperature, lack of drinking water and unnatural lighting were named as the three biggest things that can affect productivity.
Regular heating and cooling maintenance is essential to providing an environment that helps people perform at their best, and the survey proves staff are well aware of the effect conditions can have on their work.
The BRITA report included advice from Paula Brockwell, lead psychologist and head of client experience at Robertson Cooper, on encouraging healthy lifestyles alongside providing conditions that promote wellbeing. “Office environments, such as air and water quality, need to be carefully managed,” she said. “Especially in city offices where a high number of factors can affect this.”
Facilities management priorities
Researchers also spoke to facilities managers about the steps they are taking to promote corporate social responsibility (CSR), in light of two-thirds of millennials stating they would not take a job if the employer does not have strong CSR principles.
For 65% of FMs, health and wellbeing is one of the main priorities, while lowering energy consumption is a factor for 63%. HVAC maintenance has an important role to play in keeping energy usage down, as without regular servicing a system can become inefficient and fail to provide the ideal conditions.
Companies that invest in better health and wellbeing can reap substantial rewards, though they were advised not to expect immediate changes, as it takes time for the full effect of better facilities and cultural changes to become apparent.
“Health and happiness policies make total business sense if they are carried out effectively,” said Paula Brockwell. “Businesses are doing this to help their employees lead more healthy and happy lives, in return their employees will be well equipped to deliver results.”
If you’re concerned about the effect poor workplace conditions could have on your staff, click below to speak to the 361 Servicing team.
