Practical working conditions

The working world is undergoing a major rethink. An increasing number of people are working from home, and more importance is being attached to achieving a healthy work-life balance. There are a few things you should consider if you want to work effectively at home and be able to switch off after a hard day.

Dynamics

Sitting in the same posture for long stretches of time can lead to neck and back tension. You can prevent aches and pains by frequently changing your position or standing while working.

Storage

Keeping your desk tidy will also help clear your mind. Give yourself plenty of well-organised storage so that work essentials are immediately to hand and can be cleared away again in a jiffy.

Ambience

One of the greatest advantages of working from home is that you can personalise your workspace. You can create a pleasant working environment with plants, pictures and other decorative items.

Rest

A quiet environment will help to keep you focussed and productive. That’s why your home office should be protected against noise. If you don’t have a separate room, it might help to use a visual partition or room divider.

Break

You should take regular breaks away from a display screen and get some exercise. Outdoor walks are a great way of recharging your batteries. Standing while on the phone also has a positive effect on posture and circulation.

Air

Open the window regularly to keep oxygen levels high at your workplace. This will significantly increase your physical and mental performance.

Colour

Blue light disrupts our sleep-wake cycle. This not only applies to working late at computer screens but also to smartphone displays. Turn on the night mode to protect your eyes. Special workplace glasses can be bought with a blue light filter.

Light

The amount of natural daylight might not be enough to adequately illuminate your workplace. In this case, use a supplementary light source such as a daylight or LED monitor lamp to protect your eyes from fatigue.

Ergonomics

Desk and chair should be set at the right height. Upper and lower arm should form a right angle. Your posture is optimal if the angle between your thighs and torso is more than 90 degrees.