Keeping your workplace healthy is important for the well-being of your employees and the productivity of your business. In the wake of the pandemic, a great many more employers are taking the creation of a healthy work environment seriously. Below are 12 ways to maintain a productive, safe, happy and healthy work environment. 

Encourage positive thinking

Positive thinking has been shown to improve productivity, reduce stress and promote a general feeling of well-being. There are a few simple ways you can encourage positive thinking in the workplace, such as displaying motivational quotes, hosting regular company-wide pep talks and offering employees opportunities to share their success stories. You can also encourage people to explore mental health options if they are struggling–in their personal life, professionally or both.

Get rid of toxic chemicals

There are many cleaning products and other office supplies that contain harmful chemicals. These can off-gas and cause health problems like headaches, respiratory problems and skin irritations. Look for natural alternatives or green products that don’t contain these toxins.

Increase ventilation

If the air in your office is stuffy, it can make people feel sluggish and lead to health problems. Make sure there is enough fresh air circulating by opening windows or using a ventilation system. In addition to increasing the ventilation, it is always a good idea to add indoor plants to offices. The benefits of indoor plants are two-fold: you get both cleaner air and a more pleasant aesthetic. There are plenty of studies backing up the fact that people feel much better about their surroundings when there is greenery present.

Minimize noise pollution

This doesn’t mean the workplace has to be a library, but there are some simple things you can do to reduce noise levels. Make sure workstations are set up away from high-traffic areas, close doors when meetings are taking place and avoid having conversations in loud voices. For individuals experiencing difficulty hearing with background noise, these adjustments can significantly improve their ability to focus and communicate effectively. Addressing this issue helps those with hearing challenges and enhances the overall productivity and comfort of everyone in the office.

It’s a fact that not only do people get more done when the noise around them is not invasive, but they are also happier and experience less stress. You can also allow people to do things like work with headphones on and provide peaceful spaces for people to take breaks in.

Encourage regular breaks

If employees feel like they’re chained to their desks, it’s only a matter of time before they start to burn out. Make sure employees take advantage of their break times by encouraging them to step away from their workstations for a few minutes each hour.

This will give them time to clear their heads, take a walk or grab a coffee. Not only will they come back to their work feeling refreshed, but they’ll also be more productive. It also lets them socialize with coworkers, which is important. Workplaces that don’t encourage coworkers and teammates to interact are often quite cold and uninviting.

Foster a collaborative environment

When employees feel like they’re working together towards a common goal, they’re more likely to be engaged and motivated. Make sure your workplace encourages collaboration by setting up open workspaces, holding regular team meetings and offering opportunities for employees to work on projects together.

Use ergonomic furniture

Back and neck pain are common problems that can be aggravated by sitting or standing in the same position for long periods of time. Ergonomic furniture is designed to reduce strain on the body and improve comfort levels. If you can’t afford to replace all of the furniture in your office, there are some simple things you can do to make it more ergonomic. For example, raise computer monitors so they are at eye level and use a footrest to keep legs from dangling.

Offer opportunities for professional development

No one likes to feel like they’re stuck in a rut. Offering employees opportunities for professional development shows that you’re invested in their growth and want them to stick around for the long haul. Consider offering paid courses, subsidies for further education or in-house employee development and training programs.

Promote a healthy lifestyle

Encouraging employees to lead a healthy lifestyle not only benefits them, but it also benefits your bottom line. Healthy employees are more productive and take fewer sick days. There are a few simple ways you can promote a healthy lifestyle in the workplace, such as providing healthy snacks, hosting monthly fitness challenges and offering a discount at a local gym.

Make sure the physical environment is comfortable

The physical environment of the workplace has a big impact on employee satisfaction. Make sure the temperature is comfortable, the lighting is adequate and the furniture is ergonomic. These small things can make a big difference in how employees feel about their job.

Encourage open communication

Open communication is essential for a healthy workplace. Employees should feel like they can come to you with concerns, ideas and feedback without fear of retribution. Make sure you have regular one-on-one meetings with employees and encourage people to speak up in team meetings. You can also create an anonymous suggestion box or feedback form to make it easier for people to speak up.

Offer flex time and telecommuting options

Flexible work schedules are a great way to promote work-life balance for employees. Consider offering flex time, which allows people to choose when they start and end their work day. You can also offer the option to telecommute, which allows people to work from home occasionally or on a regular basis.

Conclusion

Creating a healthy work environment for your employees should be a top priority. By taking steps to promote employee satisfaction, you’ll reap the benefits in the form of increased productivity and engagement. Use the tips above to get started creating a healthier workplace for everyone.