Environmental Wellness in the Workplace: Ensuring the Physical Environment Supports Employee Wellness

Introduction

Employee wellness extends far beyond health benefits and gym memberships—it is deeply tied to the environment in which employees work. Environmental wellness in the workplace focuses on creating physical spaces that enhance well-being, productivity, and mental clarity. Companies can foster a healthier workforce, reduce absenteeism, and improve morale by prioritising factors such as air quality, lighting, ergonomics, and overall workspace design.

As an employer, you hold the power to shape the environment in which your employees work. It's not just about aesthetics; it's about making thoughtful, science-based changes to ensure your employees can perform at their best while maintaining good health. Below are key aspects to consider when developing a workplace that prioritises environmental wellness.

1. Optimising Air Quality

Poor indoor air quality can lead to various health issues, including respiratory problems, headaches, fatigue, and reduced cognitive function. The quality of the air we breathe directly affects our health, concentration, and productivity. Employers can improve air quality by installing high-quality air filtration systems, regularly maintaining HVAC units, and incorporating natural air-purifying plants like spider plants, peace lilies, and snake plants. Additionally, opening windows where possible can improve ventilation and bring fresh air into the workspace, reducing the build-up of indoor pollutants.

Providing real-time air quality monitoring systems can also help identify and address potential issues before they become a problem. These systems can detect harmful levels of carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other pollutants, ensuring that employees breathe clean, healthy air.

2. Enhancing Natural and Artificial Lighting

Light, especially natural light, is crucial in regulating circadian rhythms, affecting our sleep patterns, energy levels, and overall well-being. Natural light has been shown to improve mood, increase productivity, and reduce stress. Insufficient natural light in workplaces can cause employees to struggle with fatigue, eye strain, and reduced morale. By enhancing natural and artificial lighting in the workplace, you can significantly improve the well-being of your employees.

Employers should aim to maximise access to natural light by positioning workstations near windows or installing skylights. When natural light is unavailable, using high-quality artificial lighting that mimics daylight can help alleviate the adverse effects of poor lighting. Light fixtures with adjustable brightness and colour temperature can be particularly beneficial, allowing employees to tailor the lighting to their needs.

3. Ergonomic Furniture and Workspace Design

The physical set-up of workstations plays a vital role in employee wellness. Ergonomically designed furniture and workspace layouts can prevent musculoskeletal issues such as back pain, neck strain, and carpal tunnel syndrome. Adjustable chairs, desks, and computer monitors ensure employees can work comfortably and maintain proper posture throughout the day.

Encouraging regular movement, such as standing or stretching, is also essential in combating the adverse effects of prolonged sitting. Organisations can go a step further by incorporating sit-stand desks, which allow employees to alternate between sitting and standing during the workday, improving circulation and reducing the risk of sedentary-related health problems.

4. Creating Spaces for Movement and Breaks

Environmental wellness extends beyond the individual workspace; it includes the office's overall design. Companies should create designated spaces for movement and breaks to promote physical activity and mental rejuvenation. Breakout rooms, relaxation areas, or even walking paths can encourage employees to step away from their desks, stretch, and reset their focus. Such spaces are critical in preventing burnout and promoting long-term productivity.

Simple options like installing a small gym, providing yoga mats for stretching areas, or encouraging walking meetings can support physical and mental wellness. Physical activity improves concentration and reduces stress, so creating opportunities for employees to stay active throughout the day is critical.

5. Noise Control and Acoustic Design

Noise pollution in the workplace can significantly affect employee concentration, communication, and stress levels. While popular, open-plan offices often suffer from excessive noise, leading to distractions and a reduction in productivity. Effective noise control is crucial for creating a peaceful and focused working environment.

To reduce noise levels, employers can install sound-absorbing materials such as acoustic panels, carpets, and curtains. Offering noise-cancelling headphones or creating quiet zones for deep work can help employees focus without constant interruptions. By managing sound levels effectively, companies can create an environment where employees can perform at their best.

6. Promoting Biophilic Design

Biophilic design, which integrates natural elements into the built environment, has reduced stress, improved creativity, and boosted employee satisfaction. Incorporating plants, water features, and natural materials such as wood and stone into the workspace can create a calming and rejuvenating atmosphere.

Indoor plants improve aesthetics and help clean the air by filtering toxins and releasing oxygen. Employees who work in spaces that include natural elements are generally happier, healthier, and more productive. Biophilic design is a simple yet effective way to enhance environmental wellness, whether it’s a small indoor garden, potted plants on desks, or larger green walls.

7. Temperature Regulation

An uncomfortable workplace temperature can cause distraction, discomfort, and reduced productivity. A room that is too hot or cold can affect employees' ability to concentrate and may lead to frequent breaks or decreased job satisfaction. The ideal office temperature is typically between 21°C and 23°C, though personal preferences may vary.

Companies can provide personal temperature controls, such as desk fans or heaters, to help employees adjust their immediate environment to their liking. Regular maintenance of heating and cooling systems is also essential to ensure that the workspace remains comfortable year-round.

8. Cleanliness and Hygiene

A clean and hygienic workplace is essential not only for aesthetic reasons but also for employee health. Regular cleaning and disinfection of common areas, workstations, and high-touch surfaces help reduce the spread of germs and illnesses. Providing hand sanitiser stations and disinfectant wipes and encouraging frequent hand washing are simple but effective ways to maintain hygiene in the office.

A clean environment also fosters a sense of order and professionalism, improving employee morale and pride in their workplace. Regular decluttering and maintaining a tidy workspace also contribute to better mental well-being by reducing feelings of overwhelm and stress.

9. Incorporating Personalisation

Allowing employees to personalise their workspace can significantly impact their comfort and well-being. Whether it’s family photos, artwork, or personal plants, employees who are given the freedom to create a space that reflects their personality feel more connected to their environment. This personal connection can increase job satisfaction and a sense of ownership over their work.

10. Sustainable and Eco-friendly Practices

Environmental wellness isn’t just about the internal office environment; it also encompasses sustainability practices that support the greater environment. Implementing recycling programmes, reducing energy consumption with energy-efficient appliances, and minimising waste are all practices that contribute to a greener, more eco-conscious workplace.

Employees are more likely to feel engaged and proud to work for an organisation that prioritises sustainability. Furthermore, sustainable office practices, such as reducing paper usage or encouraging reusable materials, align with the growing demand for corporate social responsibility.

11. Water Quality and Hydration

While often overlooked, providing clean, filtered water and encouraging hydration is critical to environmental wellness. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, and difficulty concentrating, all of which can impair productivity. Offering easily accessible water stations with filtered water can promote better hydration habits among employees. Additionally, providing employees with reusable water bottles can encourage them to stay hydrated throughout the day, contributing to their overall health and well-being.

12. Supporting Mental Health with Thoughtful Design

The design of the workspace can also impact employees' mental health. Natural light, open spaces, calming colours, and areas for quiet reflection all contribute to an atmosphere that promotes mental clarity and reduces stress. Additionally, providing access to nature, such as outdoor spaces or rooftop gardens, can offer employees a place to disconnect and recharge during the workday. Thoughtful design supporting physical and mental wellness creates a holistic environment where employees can thrive.

Conclusion

Environmental wellness in the workplace is an investment in both employee health and organisational success. Organisations can foster a healthier, more productive workforce by optimising air quality, lighting, ergonomics, and other environmental factors. The physical environment plays a significant role in employee satisfaction, mental clarity, and long-term health, making it an essential component of any wellness strategy.

Connect with Dr Ashika Pillay

Connect with Dr Ashika Pillay, Wellness Lead at Emergent Africa, to learn how to enhance workplace environmental wellness and support employee well-being.