Getting to work in winter weather
Snow, rain or ice , as well as lower light levels or glare from the low sun are all conditions that can make the winter commute very hazardous.
Driving in these types of weather can be extremely stressful and require a lot of concentration. However, there is some sensible advice to be followed to try to make your commute as safe and calm as possible.
Give yourself extra time: Rushing is a main cause of mistakes and feeling under pressure to arrive on time can cause you to speed. In winter, this can be even more dangerous than speeding in normal conditions. Remember that in snowy and icy conditions in particular, you should drive slower than you normally would, traffic is likely to be heavier and slower moving and you may need to take a detour. All of these factors may add time to your journey that should be allowed for.
Clear your car properly: All windows and mirrors should be completely clear of any ice, snow or fog and you should make sure there is no snow left on the roof of your car as this can drop on to the windscreen when you are driving. Driving your car when windows, mirrors and windscreens are not clear is an offence that can add three points to your license.
Keep speed down and stopping distances greater than usual: Corners should be taken extra slowly and remember that safe stopping distances are doubled in wet conditions and can be up to ten times greater in icy conditions.
Keep steady and in control: Try to avoid heavy acceleration, braking and steering in bad weather conditions. Carry out any maneuvers slowly and with great care. Make sure that you are always aware of your surroundings as pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and other cars can be harder than usual to see.
Keep an emergency kit in the car: Winter weather can be unpredictable and it is not unheard of for people to become stuck due to impassable roads or breaking down with long recovery times. This is why it is vital that you keep a winter emergency kit in the car. This should include: Torches and batteries, warm clothing and blankets, hi-vis jackets, jump leads, food and drink and a spade.
Cold Weather Working
Cold weather brings lots of worries for employers and employees alike. Main concerns include travel, absenteeism, illnesses and general health and safety. In this post, we aim to give a little practical advice to help you to handle the biggest business concerns that cold weather brings.
What temperature should my workplace be?
There is no legal lower limit for indoor working temperature, but the Workplace Health, Safety and Welfare Regulations of 1992 state that the minimum temperature in the workplace should not fall below 16°c, reduced to 13°c if the work requires a high level of physical activity. However, these are only recommended guidelines and not legal requirements. The regulations go on to state that the temperature of workrooms should provide reasonable comfort without the need for special clothing. Employers are required to do what is reasonable and practical to keep employees warm and safe. Extra risk assessments may need to be carried out to ensure that employers are doing everything that they can to ensure their employees are not at risk of illness or injury. When the weather begins to affect the workplace, the HSE recommends the following measures in order to keep the working environment warm:- Provide adequate heating with the addition of additional heaters if required
- Reduce any drafts and reduce exposure to the cold by minimising the length of time that tasks are carried out outdoors or in colder areas
- Provide ample break time for employees to spend time in warmer areas, eat warm food and make hot drinks
- Provide appropriate floor insulation or footwear if employees are expected to stand for extended periods of time
What if the weather makes it difficult or impossible to reach your workplace?
If heavy snow or ice is making your journey extremely long, difficult or dangerous, the most advisable thing to do would be to talk to your manager about working remotely. Employers should prepare for such events with clear guidelines in place to avoid confusion among employees. Employers and employees should both act in a responsible manner at these times to protect individual safety and the interests of the company. By being prepared for such events ahead of time, risk of confusion is lowered and safety concerns are clearly communicated. If you have to travel in the snow or ice, make sure that you are aware of the best way to drive in these conditions.What about illnesses?
Conditions such as asthma, arthritis, psoriasis and cardiovascular disease can all be aggravated by the cold weather and those who suffer from these illnesses should be encouraged to take extra precautions to protect their health. Working indoors in periods of cold weather can encourage the spread of illnesses such as cold and flu. This is because indoor environments are generally less ventilated in the winter months and people's immune systems are normally weaker. Consider installing hand sanitizing dispensers around the office to help to control the spread of germs. Norovirus is another highly contagious illness and is so common in the winter months that most people know it by the name of "the winter vomiting bug". The bug is easily spread in unventilated environments where people spend a lot of time in close proximity to one another. Those who have had the bug should remain off of work for at least 48 hours after their symptoms have cleared and should remember to properly clean and disinfect their desk and equipment upon their return. Employers should be aware that asthma can become worse in cold weather as the sensitive airways of the sufferer can become aggravated by damp or cold conditions outside. Indoors, sufferers are at risk from heated air and indoor pollutants.
How To Make Hot Desking Work for Your Company
Hot desking can have many benefits for your business and can be especially useful for companies that have smaller offices or for organisations who promote flexible working. However, there can be a variety of barriers to the successful implementation of hot desking. Here we aim to highlight the biggest of those hot desking problems and provide some tips and insight into how you can avoid any big issues.
Have a system in place that allows employees to "reserve a desk"
Some days will require more desk based work than other. Having the option to make sure a desk is available when needed is a great way to help the implementation of hot desking seem less scary and more functional for staff. It also helps to keep tensions and competition for space low and makes it easy for people to plan their working day efficiently.
Reservation systems could be as simple as having an office manager or receptionist place a note or dry-wipe board message on a desk stating that the space is reserved for "x", accompanied by the time the desk is reserved from and to. For larger organisations a desk reservation software may be more suitable.
Whichever reservation method is chosen, it is crucial that all staff are briefed on the system, how it works and the importance of following it.
Make sure ample storage solutions are available
If your company is looking into hot desking, its is vital that suitable storage solutions are not forgotten. Adequate and functional storage can be the difference between the success and failure of your hot desking system.
It may be a good idea to ask your employees to fill out a questionnaire about the items they regularly bring in to work and what type of storage they feel would suit them best. For example, if people regularly bring a gym kit or change of clothes to work, larger storage options such as lockers should be made available.
An effective and secure filing system is also important when people no longer have a personal desk to occupy. There are many mobile pedestal options now available on the market and these can be a great solution for storing documents and other items that staff require to carry out their job effectively. Alternatively, a move towards a paperless office could also be implemented around the same time as the start of your hot desking plans.
It's also a good idea to place coat racks and hooks near each set of desks to allow people to keep bags, coats and other bulky items away from their working area but within sight and reach.
Have awareness for how others work
Some companies organise their hot desking system into different zones or departments throughout the building. For example, you may choose to have a silent working area, a more relaxed area and a zone for people who regularly make or take calls.
Alternatively, staff should be encouraged to respect others around them, such as stepping outside to speak on the phone if other colleagues are working quietly.
Keep desks clean and tidy
This is an important factor of hot desking success. Firstly, staff will become frustrated if they have to rearrange or tidy a desk before they can use it and secondly, colds and other illnesses are easily spread when desks, keyboards, phones and mice are shared by many people, so good hygiene is paramount for staff health.
Make it quick and simple for staff to keep desks clean and clear by placing a bin next to each desk or set of desks and antibacterial wipes within easy reach for wiping down the desk and shared accessories. You could also consider placing sanitising hand gel dispensers near each set of desks to help to stop the spread of germs.
Create spaces where staff can relax, socialise and collaborate
Hot desking offers a range of benefits, however, having alternative spaces that allow staff to break away from their work are crucial to the success of a desk sharing environment.
Staff need time to relax, meet with other colleagues and eat and drink in order to be productive, alert and creative. Depending on the way you choose to implement your hot desk system, it may not be possible to achieve these things at a shared desk. Without accessibility to spaces that cater for these types of activities, staff will quickly become frustrated with the system and become rapidly demotivated and unproductive.
Why Are Office Kitchen Areas So Important?
Interior design trends are clearly showing that kitchens are becoming the new domestic hub. This trend is now spilling over to the work place and it's easy to see why.
A well designed kitchen area, breakout space or canteen, provides a much needed break from screen time and allows employees to rest, recharge and socialise with colleagues. These areas are fast becoming the collaboration hubs of the office, where creative ideas are conceived and cross-department relationships are formed. Kitchens and breakout areas provide employees with space for a no-obligation rest, chat or meeting. It's an environment where ideas can be sparked, problems solved and morale boosted, all without any pressure. If these things happen in this space, it's a bonus, but the space is primarily accepted and respected as a space that allows time away from work. However, it is often found that without the same pressures that are found in meeting rooms or behind desks, ideas and problem solving become much more creative, inclusive and frequent, even without a set intention or agenda.What makes a great space?
The best functioning kitchen and breakout areas are equipped with modern appliances and conveniences such as coffee machines, microwaves and refrigerators which allow staff to bring in healthy meals from home and easily recharge their bodies while they rest their minds. Furniture is also hugely important to the functionality and enjoyment of these spaces. Comfortable lounge areas with sofas and soft seating are important for those who want to sit down and recharge. Ergonomic chairs and tables are ideal for staff who wish to work away from their desk in a less formal environment. Large tables and comfortable seating provide a space for groups to gather and chat or collaborate, whilst smaller tables and high quality canteen chairs are great for those who simply want to sit and eat. Acoustic pods and booths can be invaluable in this type of environment as it means those who prefer a little more quiet can still enjoy the culture and opportunity that these spaces provide, without having to completely isolate themselves from the experience. Kitchen and breakout areas are no longer seen as small conveniences, but more as areas that capture and create a positive company culture that should be accessible for all. So, with that in mind, it might be time to start planning a refurb! Here's a great case study for a kitchen area that we completed for a global Sat Comms company to give you some inspiration.
Getting Through Winter at the Office
Most staff will be waking up to dark mornings and leaving the office in the dark. It's cold and rainy, so commutes are even more miserable and there's less to do during leisure time outside of the office. Christmas is only a few weeks away and some may be stressed with the cost and organisation associated with it. And to top it all off, it's cold and flu season.
So, what can be done to lift spirits and make sure that staff well-being is cared for over the winter months?
Provide healthy snacks This is important in keeping people alert and productive and stopping the afternoon slump. Comfort eating is common at this time of year and usually there's no shortage of sugary snacks on offer in the lead up to Christmas. Fruit is ideal for getting a sweet hit and vitamins all in one. Iron rich foods are also great for providing energy and keeping people alert. Sugary and caffeinated drinks should be kept to a minimum, so consider stocking up on herbal teas or naturally flavoured water. Encourage movement Holding walking meetings, taking the stairs and getting outside on breaks (if it isn't too cold or wet) are great ways to incorporate movement into the working day. Moving helps to keep you alert and productive, as well as stimulating the release of endorphins to keep spirits up. You could also consider putting together a "deskercise" information sheet with instructions on how to keep active whilst working at a desk. Encourage short breaks Following on from the previous point about keeping active, encouraging staff to take a few minutes break in between tasks is a great way to keep people focused. A few minutes every hour to take the eyes away from a screen and allow the brain to relax a little also helps to keep stress levels down and generally help people to feel less pressured. Consider lighting Keep the blinds open, even when it's cloudy as any natural light is beneficial. Consider investing in lighting that more closely mimics natural daylight. This is important for keeping the body clock on track and keeping us refreshed and productive despite the cold and dark outside. Educate staff on the importance of vitamin D In the winter, there is less sunlight available which means our Vitamin D levels will naturally decrease. This can lead to a more deflated mood and further exaggerate any existing aches and pains. Good quality vitamin D supplements are easily available over the counter and can easily help to restore any depleted levels. Offer help and support Set up exercise or well-being workshops throughout each month or offer access to mental health support - this could be as simple as making staff aware about the type of help that is available and local places they can go to receive support or further information. Consider offering physical health checks to staff to make sure their basic health is looked after. You could also set up awareness classes around smoking and drinking as these habits are generally increased around this time of year and are often popular new year's resolutions which are rarely followed through without the right support and awareness. Also, stress the importance of people going to have their flu jab, and perhaps offer it free of charge to employees. Organise a few fun activities throughout the winter Keep morale high and invest in a few fun days out or evening social gatherings throughout the winter months. Generally people tend to hibernate at this time of year, once the Christmas party season is over. This can affect well-being, their performance at work and team morale. Get staff involved with organising something they would all like to do together, and help them to fund a few activities.
How Can I Manage Stress At Work?
On Stress Awareness Day, we look at some ways that stress at work can be managed
Don't stay silent If your workload is too overwhelming, talk to your manager or a colleague. Explain to them why you're struggling, especially if the problem is out of your control. This helps to keep the people around you informed, which in itself should relieve some pressure. A manager or colleague may be able to offer a solution that you hadn't thought of, or even take some of your workload off your shoulders. Take breaks and try to relax Stress slows down and distorts the cognitive functions of the brain. This has a direct impact on productivity and quality of work. While it may seem that you have no time to take breaks, not taking them can actually be counterproductive. Even just a few five minute breaks taken between tasks, or after working for a certain amount of time can help to keep your brain alert. Use this time to look away from your work, (particularly if you use a screen), get up, stretch and move and also make sure you are snacking healthily and keeping hydrated. After an intense or particularly stressful workload is finished, try to take some proper time to recuperate. For example, if a job has taken weeks to complete and has been particularly stressful, consider taking the minimum of a long weekend off. This way, you will have something to look forward too whilst you are doing the work and a great way to wind down before starting a new project. Try to get outside Even if it's a quick, brisk walk around the block during your lunch break, a change of scenery and some fresh air can help to calm you down and refresh your brain. Exercise is a great stress reliever and it also releases endorphins which improve mood. If you can't get outside, try to leave your desk and walk about the building, use the stairs instead of the lift and even consider parking your car further away from the entrance of the building. Try not to take work home with you Don't check your emails after you leave the office, unless it's company policy. When at home, try to spend some time on yourself. A nutritious meal, a soothing bath or shower and a herbal tea or decaffeinated hot drink can all help you to unwind. Try to end screen time from devices and TV at least an hour before you intend to go to sleep. In this time, you could escape into a book, meditate or write your emotions down in a journal. The NHS also has a list of apps that they recommend in order to help with a range of mental health issues, including stress and anxiety.
Ergonomic Tips for Teachers
Although teachers are not necessarily sat down for as long as office workers, they are still just as susceptible to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)
Standing for extended periods of time, bending or crouching down to low desks and chairs, or sitting on chairs designed for children can all put strain on a teacher's body. MSDs are one of the leading reasons for extended periods of time off across a range of professions throughout the UK workforce. The economical impact of extended absence is huge and in the case of teachers, the academic impact on students also needs to be considered. Research shows that:- 75% of teachers suffer neck and shoulder pain
- 53% have suffered with knee problems
- 33% have had trouble with their hips
- 82% experience MSD related pain at least once a week
What do teachers need to be aware of?
Teachers should pay special attention to how much time they spend on their feet, particularly if they are stood in one place, such as next to the whiteboard, for long periods of time with little movement. Spending a lot of time standing, particularly in one position, can increase the risk of:- Varicose veins
- Poor circulation
- Bunions
- Painful swelling of the feet and legs
- Joint damage
- Lower back pain
- Problems with the feet
Solutions?
Achieving good musculoskeletal and postural health is all about making sure that the teacher is properly supported and comfortable throughout the range of tasks they must fulfill each day. The Jollyback Teacher's chair is a great addition to any classroom. It prevents the need for teacher's to crouch and bend by allowing the teacher to sit at pupil height in an ergonomically supportive chair. The castor base and adult height handle, make the chair easy to move without the need for bending or lifting. A supportive, ergonomic chair for working at their own desk should also be made a priority by teachers and their employers.
How Can You Improve Children’s Spinal and Postural Health at School?
Is your classroom ergonomical?
Musculoskeletal disorders and back pain account for 31 million of lost working days due to absenteeism. The costs to the economy are huge and perhaps that's why prevention or intervention for these issues tends to focus on adults in the workforce rather than children. However, research shows that increasing numbers of children are experiencing neck and back pain. 72% of primary and 64% of secondary school students reported that they had experienced back pain at school. There are currently no legal regulations regarding back and postural health for students that schools are required to follow. Children spend approximately 30% of their waking hours at school and much of this time is spent seated. Freedom from back pain and good postural health has been shown to have a positive impact on concentration and the ability to learn.Luckily, there are some simple things that you can do to care for student's musculoskeletal health
- The 30:30 Rule: for every 30 minutes spent seated, encourage students to stand up, move and stretch for 30 seconds
- Limit the amount of time that students are sat cross-legged on the floor. Try to keep this time to around 10 minutes and encourage students to sit with their legs out in front of them
- 10% of a person's body weight is recommended as the limit of safe weight for backpacks. Try to encourage students to repack their bags each night so they only bring what they need. Alternatively, consider the provision of lockers where students can store belongings that aren't required for their next lesson.
- Make sure everybody has a clear view of the front of the classroom, the white board and where you are standing to teach. Students should not need to twist, strain or stretch to clearly see these elements.
- If a student is regularly hunching over their work in order to read or write, consider the quality of their eyesight and consider reporting this to their parents
- Make sure students are active during break times
- Provide students with specially designed ergonomic chairs suitable for their age range.
- Lead by example. Get up and move with them and make sure that you are standing and sitting with a good posture.
How Does Tiredness Affect Performance at Work
Research from Westfield Health has found that almost half of employees regularly turn up to work too tired to function effectively. Despite this, 86% feel that they are not able to openly communicate with their manager about how their tiredness is affecting their performance.
34% of survey respondents said that their mental well-being has suffered because of their tiredness, whilst 55% stated that their fatigue extends beyond the office and affects their home life too.
37% state that tiredness has made them forgetful at work and 30% said it has made them short tempered with colleagues. Worryingly, 22% have found themselves actively drifting off to sleep at work and 13% have drifted off while driving. Furthermore, 30% have had an accident, made a serious mistake or felt extremely stressed at work due to fatigue.
Currently, 86% of employees feel that their employers or managers do not recognise the negative impacts and dangers of fatigue and only 9% believe that their employer would find fatigue a valid reason to call in sick.
Director of Well-being at Westfield Health, Richard Holmes, states that "the importance of rest time both at work and home should be taken seriously and encouraged by employers, and fatigue should be considered just as important as any other physical illness or injury".
So, what can be done?
Try to break your work schedule down into smaller chunks. This makes larger tasks seem less overwhelming and also allows you to use the Pomodoro Technique which can help you to stay focused and less stressed. Make sure you get up to move around as much as possible throughout the day. This is good for keeping your mind alert and a gentle outdoor exercise such as a short walk during your break time is proven to have a positive impact on mental health. Try to slowly cut down on sugar and carbs and swap caffeinated drinks for herbal teas or water. This helps to keep energy levels steady throughout the day rather than providing an artificial peak caused by sugar or caffeine which results in an energy crash later in the day. Make sure your work space is set up ergonomically. A good ergonomic chair and setting your monitor screen to the correct height, as well as the addition of a footrest are all great ways to keep your body free from aches, pains and strains. An ergonomically correct posture will also keep oxygen flow and circulation at an optimum to help you to stay more alert and focused. Freedom from aches and pains helps you to feel less tired and aids in keeping added stress from pain at bay. Try to get as much rest at home as possible. Develop a good night time routine with screen time ending at least an hour before you plan to go to sleep. Also, unless it is required by your employer, do not bring your work home and don't check or respond to emails whilst out of the office. Consider taking a long weekend if you have enough holiday time to use. Regular, shorter breaks can often be better than one extended summer holiday. Try to use this time to relax and unwind as much as possible and make sure that you do not spend the time checking up on work. Finally, if you feel able to, talk to your manager or employer about how your fatigue is affecting you both personally and professionally. You may, for example, be able to reach a flexible working agreement to allow you some extra time to rest, or you oculd ask for the opportunity to start and finish earlier so that you don't spend any more time than necessary commuting.
What Are Employee’s Top Priorities in Terms of Benefits and Working Environment
Do you really know what makes your staff tick?
Research by co-working developer, Areaworks, has found that flexible and comfortable working zones are a top priority to employees. Half of the workers surveyed wanted to swap fixed desks for hot desks and casual seating. 64% of office-based respondents also stated that having access to good outdoor facilities or the ability to work on a roof terrace were important productivity and well-being factors. Other items that made the list for dream office features included:- Good kitchen facilities
- Plants
- Games, e.g, table tennis
- Pets
- Sleeping Pods
- Water Features
What’s The Best Height Adjustable Desk?
Looking to buy height adjustable desks? Need some more information about the best types of sit/stand desks? Read on.
There is plenty of information available online regarding the multitude of ways that sit/stand desks are beneficial for both staff and employers. However, there isn't much information about what the best type of height adjustable desk may be for your business. We won't cover all of the specific benefits that height adjustable desks can offer, as this information is easily found, however, we will say that keeping the body moving throughout the day is one of the best ways to improve concentration and productivity and avoid the development of musculoskeletal issues. There is a wide range of factors that need to be considered when looking to purchase height adjustable desks. These factors are often overlooked by consumers and this leads to dissatisfaction and inefficient use further down the line. It also causes many to believe that sit/stand desks are an unsustainable "fad" for the workplace. Here, we aim to help you to choose the best type of ergonomic sit/stand desk and explain why this choice is most likely to have the best impact on staff health, well being and productivity and thus, the best ROI for your business. Manually adjustable sit/stand desks are generally operated by a crank handle. This adjustment operation is almost always slow and laborious and often people will simply just stop adjusting the desk, particularly if it is intended for use by a sole individual. In the case of electronic height adjustable desks, there are a range of factors to consider before purchase that could cause issues with usage and integration. Electronic operating motors can be noisy both when in use and when idle. A common complaint is that even when not being actively adjusted, the motor will make an annoying humming or buzzing noise which is particularly noticeable in quiet working areas of offices or in libraries. Motors also run the risk of failure. It's not common but it is a problem that can occur and if it does it has the potential to put the desk out of use until fixed. Motor failure is particulalry problematic if the failure occurs during an adjustment as the desk will end up at an awkward and unworkable height. Multiple and frequent adjustments can wear the motor out or cause it to overheat. This is a particular issue in areas where the desk is shared by multiple users or is in a more public environment. Electrical sit/stand desks will need to be placed within the vicinity of a power outlet and there is also the issue of additional cabling to address. The placement of desks that are required to have direct access to power means that re-configuring your office space becomes much harder so your layout becomes very fixed. Making the change to using a height adjustable sit/stand desk can be uncomfortable and hard to become accustomed with for new users. The change requires the user to form a habit of changing between sitting and standing regularly in order to reap the intended benefit of the desk. Having a desk that is quick and easy to adjust, will help to make the process less of a struggle and habit forming easier. As with the point above, people should neither sit all day, nor stand all day so regular adjustments throughout the day are unavoidable. If adjustments are slow, noisy or take a lot of effort, people will simply stop changing the height and the desk's function becomes obsolete, along with the business' ROI. Transform, is the first gas assisted height adjustable desk to come to market. This simple method of adjustment - that has been implemented in chair design for decades - could actually solve many of the issues relating to the use of sit/stand desks and their effective integration into the workplace. The desk requires no electrical power and doesn't rely on a crank handle. The gas assisted adjustment is smooth, quick and requires only fingertip touch from the user. The height is set by applying a brake to keep the desktop in place. Transform boasts a 700-1500mm height range and is available in 1200, 1400 and 1600mm top lengths. Transform is a logical and practical advancement on the height adjustable desks that are currently on the market. It solves all of the problems outlined above and is a worthwhile investment for businesses who are looking to introduce sit/stand desks into their work place.
FURNITURE FOR HEAD OFFICE OF NETWORK INFRASTRUCTURE COMPANY
As a customer of ours since 2008, we were delighted to be able to assist this network company in making their new offices practical, welcoming and comfortable
Our main areas of focus were the main offices, meeting room, boardroom and breakout space. We created all these areas with a modern and professional finish in mind to reflect the company's business and values. We wanted each area of their new offices to be highly functional and selected a range of furniture with comfort, practicality and ease of use in mind. The main office areas were furnished with bench desking featuring cable management and monitor arms for increased desk space and comfortable ergonomic function. The Oscar mesh back chairs provide ultimate comfort with a self-tensioning synchro-mechanism which keeps users supported through each movement they make in the chair. The mesh also keeps the user's back cool and provides sound ergonomic function. Next to desk tower storage pedestals provided a practical way to keep personal possessions, files and other required materials nearby. They also add to the overall professional and modern feel of the office with their sleek finish and smooth operation. We installed a large box base veneer conference table in the boardroom with integral cable management. We completed the look of this room with faux leather conference chairs for a luxurious feel. Throughout the offices, we also placed height adjustable and poseur benches to allow employees the option of working whilst standing. This has been proven to increase productivity and provide a variety of mental and physical health benefits. Poseur tables and stools were also provided in the breakout area, providing the option of a standing or seated lunch/social area.
How to Make the Most of Your Small Office Space
A small office can start off feeling fine, then a couple of new starters arrive, storage spreads out, meetings get squeezed in wherever there’s a spare corner, and suddenly the whole place feels a bit tight. As the space changes make sure you have enough air volume for numbers in the office.
That tends to show up in little ways, like people bumping chairs as they pass, noise travelling further than you would like, and desks becoming the default place for everything from filing to catch-ups.
Still, making the most from small office space usually comes down to two things: how the room is used day to day, and whether the layout and furniture actually support that.
With a bit of planning, some flexible choices, and a few practical swaps, you can often make the space feel calmer and work better, without jumping straight to relocating.
Start With a Plan and Measure Carefully
Before moving anything, it helps to take stock. In smaller rooms, even small measurements affect how the office feels, so it’s worth getting the basics down first. A quick audit might include:- Measuring wall lengths, door swing space, and window positions
- Noting fixed items like radiators, sockets, columns, and any awkward corners
- Checking walkways, so people can move without having to slide chairs out of the way
Choose Multi-Functional Furniture
In a small office, furniture that only does one job can take up space you do not really have. Multi-functional pieces tend to make a difference because they combine tasks without adding bulk. Some examples that work well:- Desks with built-in drawers, so everyday items don’t spill into shared areas
- Shared tables that work as both “extra desk space” and a quick meeting spot
- Fold-away or collapsible pieces that can be stored when they’re not needed
Use Vertical Space and Storage Solutions
Office storage is usually one of the first things that makes a small office feel crowded. People put boxes “just there for now”, then filing grows, then supplies pile up, and the floor space disappears. Using vertical space helps lift a lot of that pressure:- Wall-mounted shelving for supplies and shared items
- Cupboards that go up rather than out
- Storage walls are made up of modules, so you can vary what’s open, what’s closed, and what is used for high-volume storage
Keep Layout Flexible for Different Uses
Small offices rarely do just one thing. You might need heads-down focus in the morning, a team catch-up at lunch, and a quick planning session in the afternoon. A layout that only works “one way” tends to feel restrictive quite quickly.Experiment with desk layout ideas
These desk grouping patterns are especially useful for smaller rooms:- Paired Islands: two desks face-to-face, which can support collaboration while staying space-aware, often handy in narrower rooms
- Blocked Seating: groups of four desks, which suits small teams working together without needing a big open-plan floor
- The Bullpen: desks arranged in an inner-facing square, rectangle, or circle so the whole team can collaborate more naturally
Think about meetings without sacrificing desk space
If meetings keep happening around someone’s desk, it can help to create a simple shared meeting point:- A wall-mounted presentation monitor, or a large whiteboard, placed where everyone can see without crowding one area.
- Collapsible meeting tables, so you can create a meeting space when needed, then store them away.
- A mobile screen that can be repositioned and stored.
- A modular acoustic wall solution that can be restyled or packed away when the meeting is done.
- Use a local coffee shop for one-to-ones
- Try walking meetings in a nearby park
- If too many people are in on the same days, a rotating remote working schedule can free up space without reducing output
Opt for Compact Seating and Desks
Small offices punish oversized furniture. A desk that is slightly too deep, or a chair that does not tuck in properly, can turn a workable layout into a daily irritation. Slimmer desks often make sense here, particularly where walkways get tight. Modular and mobile desks also fit this section well because they support layout changes without creating dead space. Chairs matter too, especially when people are seated for long periods. This is where supportive operator chairs can help, because they’re built for everyday use but don’t have to dominate the room. The basic aim is to keep furniture proportions sensible, so movement stays easy, and the office feels usable even when everyone is in.Maximise Light and Openness in the Space
Light changes how a small office feels, sometimes more than any layout tweak. Natural light tends to make rooms feel more open, so it helps to keep windows clear rather than stacking items nearby. A few practical things that often help:- Avoid tall storage directly in front of windows
- Use glass screens if you need separation but want to keep brightness travelling through the space
- Keep wall colours and larger surfaces light if the room feels boxed in
- Tidy cables and surfaces, because visual clutter makes the space feel smaller than it is
If you want help mapping this to your own space, or you’re weighing up furniture choices, you can contact us directly and discuss with our team the best solution for your office.
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Ergochair | Bespoke, Made to Measure Chairs
ErgoChair is a UK based company, set up in 2004 to fill a gap in the ergonomic office chair market
Until Ergochair, there were no ergonomic chairs on the market that could be specified to suit every individual. Even some of the best ergonomic chairs on the market could not offer complete support and comfort as they were not able to be tailored to custom requirements. For example, smaller framed people would not experience the complete benefit of a generic sized ergonomic chair as the varying supports would not correspond to the correct areas on the user's body. However, Ergochair's range provides more than just a good fit for the user. A vast range of advanced adaptations mean that they are able to create chairs suitable for a range of issues and conditions, including:- Amputeeism
- Cerebral Palsy
- Coccyx Pain
- Core Stability Issues
- Herniated or Prolapsed Spinal Discs
- Hip Replacement
- Fused or Painful Knee Joints
- Differential Leg Lengths
- Lumbar Pain
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Neck and Shoulder Pain
- Pelvic Pain
- Scoliosis
- Thoracic Back Pain
- Wheelchair Use/Restricted Mobility
- A Range of Armrests - from simple support to permanent contact rests for severe upper limb issues
- Neck and Head Rests, Rolls and Supports
- Foot Rings and Plates
- Locks - Keep the Chair From Moving or Swiveling
- Range of Inflatable and Reactive Support Cells Across the Backrest and Seat
- Sculpted and Memory Foam Backrests
- Coccyx Cut-Outs and Zones
- Wave and Split Seats - for issues with lower limbs such as amputation or prothesis
- Memory Foam Seats
If you would like to know more about Ergochair, or to book an assessment, please call 01293 510553 or email sales@waveoffice.co.uk
Explore the Ergochair products
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ENHANCE YOUR SIT/STAND EXPERIENCE
Making the choice to move to a sit/stand way of working can be quite an adjustment, but with the right equipment and accessories, it should be a more comfortable transition
Despite sit/stand desks being proven to be beneficial to health, well-being and productivity, if you're used to sitting at a desk for many hours, changing to sit/stand can be a challenge. The key is to build yourself up slowly, finding a rhythm of sitting and standing that works for you and gradually building your standing time up. As with any lifestyle change, jumping in head first and not pacing yourself can quickly cause you to give up and revert to what is familiar and comfortable. Alongside your increasing sit/stand schedule, there are several other products and accessories that can help you to make a smooth and comfortable adjustment. Standing Mat: These types of mats can help you to better control your posture, which in turn can help relieve aches and pains in the legs, feet, hips and back. They also make it easier to get used to spending time on your feet by providing a soft but supportive base. If you prefer to work in this position with your shoes off, they also provide a clean area for you to stand. Monitor Riser/Screen Mount: Raising your computer screen up to eye level is a crucial part of reaping the benefits of a sit/stand desk. If your monitor is too low, you will need to hunch or stoop to get a proper view, or you could even end up leaning. Postures of this type can cause painful problems with the neck, shoulders and upper back. Most risers also provide support to your wrists which can help to prevent RSI when typing. An added bonus of mounting or raising your screen is the extra desk space you gain for accessories, notes and files etc. Comfortable Footwear: Be aware that if you have been used to sitting at your desk, your choice of footwear may not have caused you any problems in the past. However, if you are trying to stay on your feet for longer, you may find that your usual shoes can cause pressure, pain and blisters. If possible, try to wear a soft sole shoe such as trainers to help you with your transition. You may even choose to remove your shoes for a period if this is appropriate. Ergonomic Chair: Preventing aches and pains and keeping your body moving doesn't need to stop when you need a break from standing. Ergonomic chairs are designed to help you to keep a proper posture and provide support to the parts of the body that require it the most. Some ergonomic chairs even come with a mechanism that keeps you active whilst you're sitting. This helps to keep you alert and productive and prevents stiffness and aches throughout the body. Foot Rest: Improve your posture further with the use of a footrest when you are sat down. A foot rest can help to prevent swelling in the legs and feet and relieve pressure in the hips by keeping your legs at a suitable angle. The Right Height Adjustable Desk: The above products and tips will all be wasted if you haven't got a sit/stand desk that works for you. There are plenty to choose from on the market and you should invest some proper time in choosing one to suit you and the way you work. From electric or manual height adjustable desks, to those that remind you when its time to stand up and keep track of burned calories for you, there really is a desk for everyone. Request to visit the dealers who you are interested in buying from so you can see the desk before purchasing. Some companies will even let you trial the desks at your own workplace to ensure you have the right fit. [yikes-mailchimp form="1" title="1" description="1" submit="Sign Up"]
WHICH PLANTS ARE BEST FOR MY OFFICE?
With urbanisation on the rise and a dependence on technology increasing, most of us have less time to relax and renew our mental and physical energy
Research has shown that incorporating elements of nature into the working environment can reduce blood pressure, heart rates and stress levels and can increase creativity, productivity and general mood. A quick and simple way to incorporate nature into the office is through the use of plants. There's a huge variety of plants with a range of benefits which require very little care. Here we take a look at the top eight plants for office spaces.Snake Plant
Can last for weeks without water and tolerates heating and air conditioning very well. Doesn't require a lot of light.
Peace Lilly
Brings a tropical feel to your work space and tolerates air conditioning very well. Suitable for low-medium light. (Not recommended for use in home offices as this plant is poisonous for cats and dogs).
Rubber Tree Plant
Ideal for brightening up corners, this floor plant boasts large leaves & brings colour to the office. Requires watering once a week.
Aloe Vera
Can go for many weeks without water but requires plenty of sunlight. The plant helps to filter the air and the gel inside has cooling and healing properties.
Yucca
Can survive for several weeks without water and can grow fairly large with the right levels of light. This plant can grow into an eye catching feature, even in large spaces.
Croton
Can grow up to ten feet tall and the leaves of the plant often feature a variable and interesting pattern. Must get enough sunlight or these patterns will begin to fade.
Fatsia Japonica
A low maintenance, air purifying plant with dark green leathery leaves
Montsera Deliciosa
This plant has huge, eye catching leaves and creates a luxury tropical feel in any space.
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INCREASE YOUR ACTIVITY LEVELS IN THE OFFICE
A typical office worker spends more time sat down than the average person aged over 75
Our sedentary working lives are severely impacting our health and wellbeing and yet few of us realise how dangerous it can be.
Many office workers spend 8 hours or more sat at their desks. This is bad enough, but when we consider the amount of time spent sitting while commuting, eating or watching television at home, the problem becomes even greater. This amount of sedentary time can lead to a range of different health problems. According to the NHS Live Well website these issues include, but are not limited to:- Obesity & Slow Metabolism
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Some Types of Cancer
- Early Death
So, how can we become more active?
Firstly, a height adjustable or sit/stand desk can encourage you to spend some time standing and moving whilst working. Sit/stand desks have also been linked to an increase in alertness, creativity and productivity, as well as helping to relieve symptoms of poor circulation and back ache. A chair such as the HÄG Sofi that features an InBalance™ mechanism can help to keep your body moving when you do need to sit down. This can also help to keep you alert, productive and aids the body's blood and oxygen flow. Apart from integrating adaptable furniture in to your workspace, there are other smaller adjustments that you can incorporate in to your working day to up your activity levels.
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WALL GRAPHICS & GLASS MANIFESTATIONS
Wall Graphics And Glass Manifestations Are a Great Way to Add Personality to Your Building
Wall graphics and glass manifestations are a simple yet eye catching way to liven up your business' premises and express your brand's values. Choose whichever design you feel would suit your space best. For example, nature shots, nearby landmarks, inspirational quotes or something that reflects your brand's ethos are all great ways to use wall graphics throughout your office. The process of choosing a wall graphic is very easy for our clients. Simply select your material (choices include, but are not limited to, canvas, Foamex and glass) and specify your dimensions. Size options are endless, our biggest one to date is 7 meters long! You can choose to supply your own artwork or we can source this for you. Installation is quick and simple and results are amazing! [yikes-mailchimp form="1" title="1" description="1" submit="Sign Up"]
How To Care For Your Office Chair
Well maintained office chairs keep employees comfortable and create a good impression on clients and visitors. It is also important to keep your chairs clean in order to keep the spread of germs and allergy causing dust and pollen particles to a minimum.
You can choose to keep your chairs maintained regularly in house which will reduce the required frequency for professional cleans. The care for each type of chair differs and you should always check the information that comes with the chair for cleaning instructions. You can also call your supplier who should be able to advise you on the correct type of maintenance and care for your chair.
- Upholstered chairs should be regularly hoovered on a low setting with a brush or upholstery attachment. Any spills or stains should be dealt with as soon as possible. Remember to follow the chair's care instructions and make sure to test any cleaning products in a small, inconspicuous area before treating the stain.
- Leather or vinyl chairs should be wiped down with a damp cloth often. Make sure the cloth you use in non-abrasive to avoid scratching the material
- Mesh office chairs should be lightly hoovered weekly to avoid the accumulation of dust and other debris in the open weave. A wipe down with a damp cloth can also help to remove any sticky residue that can build up and block air flow.
- Plastic chairs in waiting areas, canteens and cafes can be cared for with warm water and a mild detergent mix to keep them hygienic. Avoid using abrasive brushes or alkaline-based cleaning products.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A MESH CHAIR?
If you’re looking to buy a new office chair but are confused by all the options available, it can be easy to stick to something you know which is generally a simple, foam based task chair with standard fabric upholstery.
But this isn’t always the best option and you could be missing out on a chair that not only looks after your body but could also be the most cost effective solution too.
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What are the benefits of mesh chairs?
Ventilation
Traditional foam padded chairs act as insulators trapping heat between your body and the chair. This can cause uncomfortable sweating, even in an air conditioned office. Mesh chairs provide proper ventilation keeping the user cool, comfortable and dry. Ventilation can also help to minimise muscle fatigue.Easy to Clean
Spillages and general maintenance are easily handled in the case of mesh chairs. Most wipe down quickly and easily with a damp cloth, making expensive shampoos and treatments a thing of the past.Stylish & Modern
With the popularity of mesh chairs rising, designers have not only looked at improving ergonomic support but also aesthetic appeal. There are now a wide variety of customisable mesh office chairs on the market and many are now designed in line with the current minimalistic trend.Durability
Mesh chairs retain their shape well and generally see less wear and tear than fabric upholstered office chairs. There is less chance of a mesh chair ripping or areas becoming worn and frayed.Ergonomic Posture Support
A mesh chair may not look comfortable on first glance, but they can actually be more supportive than padded chairs. They can help to improve posture and reduce aches and pains associated with musculoskeletal disorders. Mesh chairs offer an array of adjustments and provide a firm, supportive structure. Many mesh chairs offer the buyer the option to upholster the seat for increased comfort whilst keeping the mesh back for postural support and ventilation.
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