Office Health and Safety

For those of us employed in an office setting, we are subject to extensive hours sitting at a desk in front of a computer. In addition to the long hours spent in the office, our commute home, and time spent outside of the office include…you named it, sitting. What many of us are unaware of is the deadly hazards hidden within this routine that are detrimental to both our physical and mental health. We become targets of ailments such as depression, diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. In the long term we are putting ourselves at risk for more serious illnesses including  cancer and stroke.

 

So how do we take back control of our health, while still maintaining our work scope? Prior to work commencing, take 10 to 15 minutes in the morning to stretch and realign your body or go for a brisk walk. During the course of your work day, ensure you are taking numerous micro breaks. Get up from your desk every hour to walk, stretch, and get outside. If your lunch hour provides sufficient time, take a walk or get a quick run in. During the course of your work day, get up and move. Walk around while taking business calls, park further away from the office doors, and if feasible, walk or bike to work. In some situations you can equip your office with a standing computer station, as opposed to sitting in a chair for the majority of the work day.

 

Outside of work hours is when you can reap the most benefits from physical activity. What many overlook is that exercise is imperative to cognitive function and a healthy mind set. Dedicate 30-60 minutes every day for moderate to vigorous exercise. Lastly, make a good night’s sleep a priority; get 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

 

How you take care of yourself determines your quality of life. Making health a priority will positively affect every aspect of your life from your job performance, to the life you lead outside of the office.