Our own health, that of our families and health and safety in the workplace has been one of the most high-profile topics of late. And with good reason, of course, given everything we have been through on a global scale. But there’s more to health and safety in the workplace than killing potentially deadly viruses and controlling the flow of staff around the office space. No, there are other problems which can arise, ones which might affect far more people on a longer-term basis that can actually be avoided with a bit of attention.
The physical effects of desk-based jobs can cause serious, chronic pain and can result in members of your teams being signed off for months on end. Sometimes, they may never be fully recovered either so it’s always preferable to prevent these issues from occurring in the first place. As someone responsible for a team of people, there is a duty of care to ensure the overall wellbeing of staff is a priority. Fortunately, we are a lot better-informed about this and there are multiple solutions available. Let’s take a look at a few of the key problems that can be faced by desk-based employees and see what can be done to help:
Muscular and skeletal problems
Extended periods of time seated in the same position can wreak havoc on the physiology. Commonly, these will translate as spinal issues, but can also include hip problems, arm and wrist pain and even restricted digestion and breathing. It might seem a difficult problem to overcome – desk-based roles require desk-based seating, don’t they? Well, not necessarily! Here are some solutions to ward off or aide physical issues:
Sit-stand desks
There are several types available and the benefits of using this type of desk can be huge. In short, they allow the user to choose the height at which they work; either seated or standing. Not only can having this choice positively impact the mindset of employees, it can also help with musculature and skeletal issues. You’ll be able to choose from adjustable heights, motorised versions, portable additions that sit on existing desks, ways to increase the height of screens and armrests and so much more besides. By standing for part of the working day, not only will physical ailments become less likely or aggravated, it can also help stimulate the mind to improve concentration and creativity.
Stand up desks
Not a hybrid, but instead giving staff the option to simply stand upright whilst working. These could be installed in certain places within the office so that employees can go and stand there for a while to have a break from sitting down. Again, they will help with aches and pains, aide concentration and will even improve circulation too.
Ergonomic seating and accessories
One thing that can play a huge role in your physical health is an improper seating position for extended periods of time. Having the right chair will give you the support your spine, hips, knees and arms all require to keep you in the safest and most comfortable position. Desk assessments and other accessories such as wrist supports for keyboards and mice and risers for laptop screens can all help prevent a niggle becoming something more sinister.
Mental health
We’ve never been more aware, or more open, than we are now about the effect poor mental health can have on an individual. Trying to help this as much as possible will set am employer apart from the rest and will really help your workforce to remain engaged, productive and will even help get them through the office door each day. So what can you do to help?
Support
From line managers, peers, external sources and processes will all help those who might struggle from time to time. Having trained Mental Health First Aiders can be a huge asset too as these people can signpost anyone needing it to the right service or support they need. Being mindful of work load and providing a safe environment for staff to express challenges or concerns will help too.
Work-life balance
Over-worked, overloaded staff who spend more time trying to keep their head above water can greatly hinder home life as it will reduce time that needs to be spent on their personal life. Not only that, if this is the working situation, the chances are there will be a constant nagging stress that exists even when not working. For continued periods of time, this can be extremely damaging so as managers of staff, it is imperative to monitor this.
Physicality
Encouraging regular breaks from desks and even encouraging exercise can help a great deal thanks to the boost it gives to the body and production of endorphins. Options to facilitate your staff to exercise could include organising walks on breaks, or hosting exercise classes, securing discounts at local gyms or having a company team sport. All of these would make it much easier for staff to be more active and healthier in both body and mind.
Disease control
The subject on everyone’s lips since early 2020 has, for obvious reasons, been Covid-19. Preparation for returns to the workplace once it is deemed safe started early on and now many companies are well on their way to being ready. But if you still have a way to go, take a look at our Glass Office Partitioning and Desk Dividers to see how they can help minimise the spread of viruses.
All of the potential health issues can of course be faced whether your teams are office- or home-based so there needs to be measures in place for everyone. At The DL Company, we are the experts in all types of office working environment and can provide everything you need to help your staff remain healthy. So give us a call on 0114 358 6248 to find out more.