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Optimize desk & work environment

Optimizing desk & work environment

Most people working on knowledge-intensive jobs are usually physically in some office and have their own desk. Optimizing your desk and work environment is one of the most crucial things to create a space where you can be comfortable, creative and productive.


Updating desk ergonomics is addressed in the ERGONOMICS chapter.
Optimizing concentration and eliminating distractions is addressed in a separate chapter.

Upgraded office

QUALITY INDOOR AIR MAKES YOU SMARTER

In today's society, we spend most of our time indoors, where the pollution from outdoors is mixed with the indoor chemical sources. – Naava.io

In terms of external factors, creating an optimal indoor climate is the single most important factor in improving the working conditions of knowledge workers. We spend more than 90 % of our time indoors and breathe in 12–15 kg (26–33 lbs) of indoor air daily. According to studies, indoor air can be 2–5 times (sometimes up to 100 times) more polluted than fresh outdoor air.


Unpurified indoor air contains various impurities such as fine particles (including mold and dust) and harmful gases (including chemicals from surface treatment agents, detergents, exhaust fumes and smoking).


In an office environment, old computers and printers often undermine indoor air quality. IT devices release volatile organic compounds (VOC) and ultrafine particles that may harm health. Furniture paints and protective agents may also release volatile organic compounds.


According to research, up to 15 % of work absences are caused by poor indoor air quality, and some studies say this number is even greater: improving indoor air quality might reduce the risk of sick leave by 35 %.


Studies suggest that poor indoor air quality significantly impacts cognitive abilities and alertness. Poor indoor air quality may make us dumber: according to a study conducted on test subjects, the individuals tested received significantly lower cognitive test results when tested in a poorly ventilated building. Several studies have shown that poor indoor air quality decreases productivity by 6–9%.
Source: Naava.io

IMPLEMENT THESE HACKS FOR BETTER OFFICE INDOOR AIR QUALITY

  • Wipe off dust regularly
  • Refrain from smoking indoors
  • Ventilate your office frequently (e.g. once every hour) or keep window(s) open during the workday
  • Purchase an air purifier
  • Purchase an air freshener that increases air humidity
  • Purchase an ionizer that spreads ions into the air, trapping negatively charged particles

Purchase plants that purify indoor air. The following plants are recommended by NASA:

  • Snake plant
  • Barberton daisy
  • Chrysanthemums
  • Peace lily

Renovate your office to incorporate breathable and natural building materials. If necessary, have the indoor air quality analyzed.