A workplace that works

A comfortable workplace does more than you think. It not only makes you more productive, it also prevents annoying complaints. Good lighting, the right temperature and an ergonomic posture: all important factors. If you don't have these in order, you run the risk of energy dips, loss of concentration or pain in your back, neck or arms. Fortunately, you can easily prevent this. With our ten practical tips, you can turn your workplace into a productive oasis - every day again.

Do you not work at home or in the office, but outside, in the factory or in construction? Even then, the right workplace deserves enough attention. Please feel free to contact our Service Center. You will find our contact details below. 

1. Provide enough – and not too much – light
When you work, light is extremely important. This applies to both daylight and artificial light; especially in winter you will have to provide good lighting on or around your desk. Also pay attention to the position of the light in relation to your screen. For example, if bright light comes from behind your screen, you have to squeeze your eyes: this makes them tired faster. Direct light on your screen can also be annoying. If there is a lot of sunlight, do not sit directly at a window or use good sun protection.

2. Find the right temperature
The perfect temperature is slightly different for everyone. For example, men often prefer the thermostat to be slightly lower than women. In general, a temperature between 19 and 21 degrees works best for most people. If your workplace is too cold, your body needs a lot of energy to warm up; a temperature that is too high makes you sluggish and tired. Both are not ideal for working in.

3. Make sure you're not in a draft
Do you have air conditioning at your workplace or are you sitting close to an open window? Then watch out for drafts, all the way on your neck. Otherwise you run the risk of neck pain. It can help to move or rotate your workspace slightly. And would you like fresh air? Then open the window when you are away from your workplace.

4.Beware of dry air
Dry air can lead to headaches, irritated mucous membranes in the nose and throat and burning or dry eyes – especially if you wear contact lenses. A bowl of water on the heating often works wonders when the air is too dry. The ideal humidity is between 40 and 60 percent. Plants can also help to freshen the air. Is the air extremely dry? Then it is good to hire a professional.

5. Get a grip on ambient noise
If you work with colleagues, the risk of ambient noise is high: colleagues who call loudly and for a long time, a printer that is constantly rattling, computers beeping. This can be disturbing. Then try to do something about it. For example, discuss whether the printer can be placed elsewhere, agree on where and when you will call or find a quieter workplace yourself. Sound-absorbing materials can also help: think of a rug, curtains or wall panels.

6. Adjust your desk and chair properly
Many of us sit incorrectly at the workplace, and it often has to do with the adjustment of our desk and chair. The right adjustment can feel strange at first, but it's worth getting used to: it pays off in the long run. The most important parts of a good work posture? Your feet flat on the floor and your knees and elbows bent at a XNUMX-degree angle as you relax behind your desk.

7. Pay attention to your equipment too
It is important that you sit behind your computer as relaxed as possible. So take a look at the correct settings:

• The top of your screen is ideally at eye level. Doesn't work? Then use, for example, a book, pack of paper or laptop riser to raise your screen.
• There should be at least one arm's length between your eyes and your screen.
• Use a separate mouse or trackpad and a separate keyboard.
• Make sure your mouse is in line with your shoulder: not too much to the right, not too much to the left.
• Place your keyboard in line with your screen, straight in front of you and not too high.

8. Keep your desk clean and tidy
This seems easy, but in practice your desk will easily and quickly become a lot fuller. From pens and loose papers lying around to your computer cords, they can all get in the way and create unrest. Make sure that only the necessary things are on your desk and that your workplace is clean. This way you can work with sufficient space and a tidy mind.

9. Give yourself a good view
The location of your desk is also important. What can you see from your workplace, and what can't? Which colors predominate? These seem like insignificant details, but they can have a big impact on how you feel. A cluttered view creates unrest, while only white walls provide little inspiration. Experiment with different views and see what works best for you.

10. Stretch your legs regularly
Last, but definitely not least: regularly take a break from your workplace. Take a short break, consciously plan meetings elsewhere, stretch your legs and give your eyes a rest. Sitting at your workplace and in front of your screen for too long leads to complaints. Allow yourself short breaks so that you can work without complaints in the longer term. Do you often forget to take breaks? Then install an app to help you remember.

Does it seem necessary?

If these ten tips don't help to make your workplace responsible and healthy, your employer may be able to help. This is because it is obliged to offer you a healthy, safe working environment. If you are unable to resolve the matter, you can report the problem to your works council or turn to a confidential counselor or social worker. Or ask which occupational health service you can contact: that organization helps your employer to arrange a good and safe work situation.

If your complaint is not resolved, you can ring the bell at the Dutch Labor Inspectorate: This government agency monitors employers' compliance with the law. You can also contact your company doctor with complaints – this is possible without permission from your employer.

Want to know more?

Do you have questions about the ideal workplace or do you want to discuss with someone how you can raise your complaints with your employer? Please feel free to contact our Service Center. We are available every working day from 8.30 am to 17.00 pm via sc@unie.nl and 0345 851 963.

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