Working in an open office environment can be extremely crowded, particularly with frequent interaction with colleagues and potential flow of germs and infection floating around the environment in close vicinity. Although open working environments can promote regular interaction with colleagues and fellow co-workers, you’d have to do that little bit extra to make sure you remain healthy. Studies have shown in the past that open offices are more likely to call in sick compared to regular offices.
Here are a few tips that you can consider to ensure good health working in an open office:
Stay Clear Of Sick Co-Workers
Germs can travel extremely quickly, especially in closed environments. This can come from anything such as a sneeze, cough and saliva. To prevent catching the germs, try to stay away from your fellow colleagues who are showing signs of illness or getting a cold. Offer them a tissue and hand sanitiser just make sure that they don’t spread viruses about.
Wash Your Hands Regularly
If there’s one way to easily get rid of germs, then the traditional wash of hands can go a long way. A simple rinse of the hands won’t do the trick though, be sure to use soap and scrub thoroughly. Bacteria and viruses are known to linger on damp surfaces so drying your hands correctly is key to stopping germs spreading.
Be Kind To Your Immune System
Don’t put your body through unnecessary stress and a poor diet as it can lead to your immune system becoming weaker. Take every step possible so that your body’s natural defence system remains strong. Promote a balanced diet, try to exercise regularly and get a good night’s sleep so your body is able to recharge from the day’s work. Nutritional foods and drinks with high levels of Vitamin D can help tackle germs in the system.
Try To Treat Yourself ASAP
If you feel signs of a cold coming on, don’t leave it until you fall ill to treat it. Get to it before it escalates! Take some remedies early doors that can help to treat the flu quicker and reduce the risk of it spreading to your fellow co-workers.
Change Your Working Environment
If your employer is flexible with working, make the most of working from home or choosing a different area to work in. Perhaps bring a laptop to work and then work from a cafe instead or somewhere else off-site. Also, consider the environment itself and potentially make recommendations to your boss about adding a few features to help; ask them to check the ventilation system is working okay or add plants to the floor the decor of the office. They’re known to increase wellbeing in the office due to processes that occur within plants.
There are many benefits to working in an open-office but the health risks can also increase. Considering these steps will surely help with how you feel in and around the office and will have you less likely to take them sick days off! So, rather than spending days out of the office being cuddled up in your bedroom, you can be taking days off for a holiday instead.