If you want to get the best out of your workers then you need to put in place an office environment that enables them to thrive. That means establishing an office that has a relaxed but also professional ambiance, with the decor that encourages thinking and openness, and plenty of light and space. It also means you need to ensure that their fundamental needs are met, whether that’s providing toilet facilities or keeping the temperature well regulated. Managing heat is your responsibility as business owner and leader. Here are some tips to think about to do just that in your office.
Managing Temperature
In any workplace where the effects of temperature in indoor environments are a risk, it’s important that you make a genuine commitment to the health and well being of your staff who work there. If there is unscheduled repair or maintenance work then you could find heating, ventilation or air conditioning systems breaking down or not working as they are meant to. This can easily happen at the worst time of year, in the hottest or coldest months, so when it does it’s important that you think about the impact of thermal discomfort on your employees. If it is a risk and your employees are complaining or even reporting illnesses then you will have to review the situation carefully. You may need to retrain staff in risk assessments, and show them how they can monitor and adapt their thermal environment. Ensure working habits and current practices are reviewed periodically so you can make sure you’re meeting your obligations to control the risks faced by your employees.
Hot or Cold
When it’s warm you can place insulating materials around hot pipes, provide air conditioning from a firm like Pure Air Conditioning, and ensure windows can be opened. It’s also a good idea to shade employees from direct sunlight and even provide additional facilities like cold water dispensers. Make sure your staff are getting the breaks they need, and allow a more relaxing formal dress code. Meanwhile when people are too cold you can boost thermal comfort by providing portable heaters, reducing draughts and cold exposure, and introducing systems of work such as job rotation and flexible working patterns as well as providing sufficient breaks to allow your staff to get hot drinks and to warm up. There is plenty that you can do to keep the environment in your office safe and healthy, and in so doing you’ll keep your employees productive and happy.
