The shift in the workplace was already anticipated prior to the pandemic in 2020. With the widespread adoption of hybrid work arrangements, discussions have predominantly centered around the advantages of flexibility. However, there has been less emphasis on the crucial aspect of health, even though it is widely recognised that a properly designed office environment significantly contributes to both employee well-being and efficiency.
We worked with Landsec to examine the scientific evidence on the extent to which our workplaces can encourage optimal health and improve productivity. Our final report Helping us feel great and perform better: Shaping tomorrow’s healthiest work environments – collates some of the most robust evidence of the last 20 years including:
One study showed that employees got an extra 46 minutes of sleep a night after working in offices with optimal daylight. Research has also shown a 12% improvement in performance in employees who moved from working in a poorly lit to a well-lit space.
Step counts reduced by 27% during the pandemic, with many people forgoing the traditional commute when working from home. Physical activity has been linked to improved thinking, learning and judgement skills and one study even showed a 72% improvement in time management and workload completed on days when office workers exercised. All Landsec’s offices prioritise provision of facilities for active commuting, such as showers, lockers and bicycle spaces.
71% of people felt more energised and 60% more motivated when working in optimal lighting conditions. Landsec’s new developments are all fitted with well-designed lighting systems that use high quality, energy efficient, dimmable LED light fittings, to reduce eye strain and fatigue and minimise energy use. A study on office workers who converted to full-time home working during the pandemic saw lower back pain prevalence in 41% of respondents and neck pain in 50%, suggesting that many of us need a more ergonomic home set up.
In a world of work where flexibility is more important than ever, and some find home working works best for their individual circumstances; the report includes best practice case studies and tips for employers.
If you’re interested in how you can boost health and productivity for yourself and your colleagues when working in an office, you can download the full report here:
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