Covid-19 has taught us about the importance of outdoor spaces in the workplace and how they can be beneficial for your employees not only for their mental health but also their physical wellbeing. Unfortunately, not all office spaces have the luxury outdoor areas, so keeping the air quality inside the office high is paramount.

It’s no surprise that air quality in an office can often be poor. Workspaces often have people packed together where dust and dirt can build up quickly. This is especially true if you’re undergoing any office refurbishments or you’re working near construction. Poor air quality can also lead to headaches, respiratory problems, coughing or fevers whilst on the job.

Luckily, there are many ways that you can improve air quality and keep your employees happy and healthy in your office environment. If you have time, go round your office and check these points to see if it’s something you can action.

How to Improve The Air Quality In Your Office

KEEP YOUR AIR VENTS OPEN AND UNBLOCKED

If furniture, boxes or other items block the path of your air vents, the air inside your office won’t be able to circulate properly. Check behind sofas and desks to ensure you’re getting maximum airflow in your space.

REPLACE AIR FILTERS FREQUENTLY

If your filters get clogged, air flow basically disappears. Over time, dust and dirt can build up behind the filters and settle inside your air ducts, putting your employees health even more at risk. As a general rule, you should be replacing your filters every 6-12 months depending on how dusty your environment is.

MAINTAIN A GOOD LEVEL OF HUMIDITY

A humidity level between 30-50 percent helps keep mould and allergies under control. Proper use of dehumidifiers and air conditioners can help control the humidity in your workspace.

CLEAN SPILLS IMMEDIATELY

Excess moisture and residual dampness supports the growth of mould and mildew, which can in turn cause health risks. It’s far more expensive to remediate mould damage than it is just to prevent it in the first place, so it’s in your best interest to clear up any spillages as soon as you see them.

ADD SOME PLANTS TO YOUR OFFICE

Not only do plants add a pleasing, calming aesthetic to any workspace, they also do a great job of absorbing airborne toxins whilst producing oxygen which means that employees will be able to breathe more easily.

USE FRESH AIR WHEREVER POSSIBLE

If your office has windows, open them up and let fresh air in. When weather permits, keeping your windows and doors open will let fresh air in and get the stale air out.

HAVE YOUR AIR QUALITY TESTED

Experts in air quality have the right tools and know exactly how to measure the air quality in your office. From airflow to humidity, ventilations, odors, water damage, mould growth and more. After a thorough inspection, you’ll know exactly what needs to be fixed to give your employees the best quality of life in the workspace.