On average, we're all working 8 hours a day. So, an office environment has a much larger impact on our lives than you would assume at first sight. It can strongly influence productivity, and a good working environment contributes to a better quality of life in general. As a result of a good indoor climate, the employees’ productivity level can be increased by up to 15 %.

Sick Building Syndrome

A phenomenon that appears to be a rising issue in offices is called Sick Building Syndrome (SBS). This is a consequence of different environmental aspects that are not properly managed within offices and can result in a number of people suffering from the side effects. The symptoms can vary from headaches and eye irritation to even vomiting and nausea. Therefore, it is crucial to take this into account while managing your indoor office climate.

Temperature

When you’re choosing an office, it is important to pay attention to other elements that can affect your employees, in addition to design and functionalities. Temperature is one of these environmental factors that can have a notable impact.

An office with a poorly controlled temperature has a detrimental effect on the employees. Several studies have shown that when the climate is too hot (> 25 ° C) or too cold (<20 ° C), productivity can decrease by 2 % per degree. In addition, physical problems such as a headaches, nausea or ear, nose and throat complaints may also occur. The optimal temperature fluctuates between 21 and 22 °C.

Moreover, you should pay attention to systems that control the air temperature smoothly and without breezes or noise. There are also energy efficient solutions available that are compatible with heat pumps and geothermal installations, along with being integrated into a ceiling. By opting for this solution, there is no need to impair the environmental esthetics. An eco- and budget-friendly example is a vektron cooling ceiling, in order to control the temperature without using fossil fuels and still being mindful of design.

Light

In addition to temperature, the influence of light is crucial. It controls our biological clock and various internal processes. So, poor lighting causes people wasting too much energy in order to see better. There are several symptoms associated with this issue that can affect your business, like concentration problems and neck or shoulder issues.

In order to avoid this, you should consider opting for an office with as much natural light as possible, and for a qualitative lighting system to support it. Extra attention is also required when it comes to the use of artificial light. If the light frequency is too low, our eyes are constantly adjusting, which could cause eye irritation.

Air

In an office environment we are, as humans, the largest polluter besides electrical equipment. As a result, the concentration of gases and substances can be higher in the workplace, i.e. CO₂. And this even without noticing it. So, it is important to ensure that all rooms have sufficient air circulation. This removes contaminated air and helps to clear the room from bacteria for example. By doing this, risks of headache, allergic reactions, dizziness and diseases in office environments will significantly decrease. 

When venting an office, make sure that you choose a system that, besides filtering the air, it can provide a fresh air supply. It ensures that not only the dust particles are retained, but also that gases can not cause negative effects. In addition to natural window ventilation for example, it is advised to select a system to support this. Because during cold winter months an open window is not always the best solution.

Would you like to know more about what a good environment can mean for your office? Contact our specialists to assist you with professional advice.