Sheet 28
OFFICE ENVIRONMENT
The following points are to be considered for creating a better office environment.
1 Temperature
The temperature in which each office employee feels comfortable differs. Each has a different sense of what is too hot or too cold, and this can vary greatly according to the climate of the country or type of job that they do. For most people, however, a temperature set between 20℃-26℃ in the office is quite adequate. Being too hot or too cool is detrimental to the employees' health and may, as a result, reduce productivity. It is important to pay careful attention to heat emitted by office equipment such as personal computers.
Each country is currently required to cut the volume of their emissions of carbon dioxide and reduce their consumption of energy as a measure to prevent global warming. We must be extremely careful not to use too much air-conditioning or heating. Governments, in particular, which appeal to the public to save energy must take the first initiative by saving energy themselves. If they don't, their policies will lose credibility.
2 Change of Air
Smoke, dust or carbon dioxide will make the air in the office unclean. Dirty air will damage employees' health and leave a negative impression on any visitor to the office. It is essential to take care of air ventilation in the office. Smoking, and indeed indirect smoking, has become a major issue in recent years and, many organizations now prohibit or restrict smoking in the office.
There are two methods of ventilation; the automatic change of air by a ventilator or a natural change of air by wind. Wind has a natural rhythm and this rhythm itself has a positive effect on the mood of employees. It may help to relieve stress or increase their imagination. Natural ventilation by wind, if possible, is always preferable.
3 Lighting
It is important to ensure that there is enough brightness in the office. At the same time, it is essential to prevent too much contrast between light and shade or dazzling brightness. Windows must never be blocked and should be cleaned frequently to allow natural light to enter easily. Natural light is remedial. It makes people feel comfortable and may promote their creativity.
