Workplace Health is a concern for employers, particularly workplace stress. According to the American Institute of Stress report "occupational pressures and fear are . . . the leading source of stress for American adults and that these have steadily increased." Time magazine highlighted this national epidemic in the eighties, then the "stress in the nineties" surveys were conducted--both of which confirmed workplace stress. According to a Princeton Survey three-fourths workers believe they have more stress today than a generation ago. Workplace stress negatively effects everyone; the employee suffers physically, emotionally, and psychologically from stress, and the employer loses productive work from the stressed out employee. The estimated financial loss of stress-related issues is $300 billion annually in combined losses. So, what can employers do to help their employees reduce stress? Let's look at a few small steps employers can take.
Stress-free Zones
Create a place, other than the typical lunch room or break area, where employees can get away to de-stress. The proper mix of lighting, furniture, and soft music transforms any work space into a tranquil room. Of course, you'll have to work out how and when employees can take advantage of the room. Sometimes just knowing there's a quiet place to retreat brings some relief.
Exercise Breaks
Encourage employees to get up and stretch, move around or take a quick walk on their break time. Some simple changes in the layout of the interior will adequately accommodate workers stretching and moving around if going outdoors isn't convenient.
Comfort
Be sure your employees can do their job in the most comfortable position. Investing in their well-being is investing in the future of your company. Remember the statistics of the workers who couldn't perform due to stress-related complications. Some employees may have special equipment needs that others don't require. For example, one person may concentrate better in a sound-proof environment, while another person needs a little background noise to function best.
When an employer integrates comfort, design, and technology into the workplace, everyone feels better. If you would like to discuss any of these topics further, please contact us today!
