Today ergonomics go beyond the layout of an office and extend to its environment where people work for eight to nine hours. The two most common environmental ergonomics at work are lighting and ventilation.

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Adequate lighting and ventilation are the fundamentals of a congenial workplace. Employees are the pillars of a company, typically contributing to 90 percent of the operating costs of a business. Therefore, even one percent of employee efficiency can have a considerable effect on the competitiveness and sine qua non of an organization. Today ergonomics go beyond the layout of an office and extend to its environment where people work for eight to nine hours. The two most common environmental ergonomics at work are lighting and ventilation.

Lighting 

Adequate natural lighting through windows reduces the use of electric lights in an office space. When it comes to indoor lighting, offices should use the minimum for workstations. Install lights at strategic points to reduce glare and maintain a contrast ratio. Using adjustable and sufficient workstation lighting is essential to meet the specific levels that help in reducing energy bills. Glare from other sources of light may reflect off the monitor, affecting productivity and result in employee eyestrain. Therefore, the recommended contrast ratio should not exceed 10:1 and lights should be placed to the right or left of the field of view. 

Ventilation

The World Green Building Council has come up with a simple plan to help organizations to build a better workplace. Addressing environmental problems, employee surveys, measure productivity, absence from office, and medical costs are a few to mention. The report, Building the Business Case: Health, Wellbeing and Productivity in Green Offices, highlights the importance of office design and environmental ergonomics. The report says, “Overwhelming evidence between office design and improved health and wellbeing of workers and demonstrates tangible action businesses are taking to improve their workspaces.” In fact, improved ventilation and air quality help in doubling the cognitive ability of employees. Proper operation, design, and maintenance of office ventilation systems are mandatory to improve indoor air that is free of allergens and pollutants.   

Every office should plan and design workspaces free of health hazards and risks, making employees comfortable and boost productivity.