| | ErgonomicsThe Importance of Proper Positioning for Optimum Comfort and Productivity
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|  | A variety of factors are out of our control at the office, including the personalities of our co-workers or boss, the square footage of our offices and external deadlines. But, by controlling the things you can control at work, you can leave at the end of the day feeling more positive and healthy.
The study of these things we can control is called ergonomics, and it includes the air you breathe all day long. Stale air or polluted air may cause allergies, constant coughing, headaches, illness and excessive tiredness. You may be tempted to blame these symptoms on other elements, but you should investigate the source of your air at work and take any measures you can to make it as fresh as possible.
Irritants in the air at work can include too much carbon dioxide, chemicals, ozone given off by office machinery, dust and mold. If you are having health problems, discuss all these possibilities with your physician and have proper tests performed to identify the source. Portable air purifiers may offer you some relief in an office setting, but they do not supply fresh air. They also do not work well when windows are open.
Some changes you can make at work to improve the air you breathe include:
- Keeping machines that use chemicals as far away as possible and utilize the least toxic chemicals you can
- Encouraging your employer to adopt a routine air filter and air conditioning service policy
- Asking your employer to increase the speed of intake and exhaust fans
- You might also benefit from a humidifier if your office has dry air
If you have reactions or allergies to perfume and candles, you may have to push for an office policy that refuses them. Or, talk to co-workers about your concerns and ask for these possible irritants to be reduced while you are around your workstation. |
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