The environment in which people must work can have a significant impact on their ability to perform the tasks that have been entrusted to them. This can affect productivity and the health and well-being of employees. The key factors fall into two categories, those that are driven by management procedures, protocols, and requirements, and those that arise from the design of facilities, offices, or factories.

Management-driven factors include the development of:

o Organizational plans such as the assignment of responsibilities at all levels of the organization, definition of job descriptions and the degree of access to management and administrative support necessary to complete their tasks;

o Work patterns, shift work, breaks, absence or vacation coverage; Y

o Health and safety policies, including the provision of training, the development of safe work practices, and the adequate supply of protective clothing and equipment.

The work environment can also have an impact on a person’s ability to work safely, competently, and in compliance with operational performance goals. It is important to address the following:

o Availability of workspace. Have you determined if there is enough space available for the tasks that the person must perform? Are desks / computer terminals shared and does this affect productivity or cause stress? If the person is working in a manufacturing area and needs to complete documentation or conduct an inspection, is there a work station available in their work environment close to where they work?

o Light intensity. Requirements for light intensity and light type must be determined as insufficient light will affect visual inspection activities.

oClimate / temperature. Is the area where the person is to work too hot or too cold, open to the weather / elements? If there is a requirement to work outdoors or in adverse temperatures, does the company provide the appropriate controls, clothing or equipment?

o Ventilation / humidity. Does the work environment contain poor quality air that could cause fatigue or reduced performance?

o Noise / vibration. Can vibration affect a person’s performance or safety? Is hearing protection a requirement? Could this adversely affect performance?

o Odor / dust or other emissions. How is it assessed and, if necessary, monitored to ensure staff safety?

oPremises for hygiene / wellness facilities. Is the area in which the person is expected to work hygienic, clean and orderly? Does the level of clutter affect performance? Is the area so dirty, unsanitary, or infested with pests that it causes stress to the people who work there? Are staff facilities, restrooms, sinks, dining rooms, and coffee making facilities adequate and hygienic?

How often, as a senior manager, do you take a tour of the site? What are you looking for? Do you know what effect current employee dissatisfaction has on your organization’s productivity and profitability? Remember that it is your responsibility to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of those who work for you!