Assessment of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and Employee Well-being in the Workplace
Abstract
Objectives: Office indoor air quality (IAQ) is paramount for the well-being and productivity of employees. Research indicates that poor IAQ is linked to heightened risks of respiratory issues including allergies and exacerbated asthma symptoms, along with headaches, fatigue, and stress. These health challenges can diminish concentration and cognitive function, leading to a decline in overall work performance. This study aims to explore the perceived IAQ from city municipal employees in public servicing office buildings in South Georgia. Methodology: Data collection involved distributing surveys via flyers and emails, with QR links to employees in the designated buildings. Participants shared their perceptions of IAQ and reported stress-related symptoms, respiratory issues, headaches, and more. Concurrently, objective measurements of IAQ parameters were obtained using indoor environment monitoring equipment. Results: Results from the survey, encompassing 105 participants (male (53.01%); female (45.78%)) across 16 randomly assigned office buildings, revealed concerning findings. The survey gathered data on more than 20 health-related symptoms related to poor indoor air quality conditions. The result shows that >10% of the total employees taking the survey (city hall (2.41%), police HQ (3.61%), and public health administration (3.61%) respectively) think the air quality of their office room is bad, and 54% of employees responded it is acceptable. Adverse health impacts were notable, with respiratory irritations affecting 34% of participants, headaches reported by 76.54%, difficulty in concentration experienced by 59.26%, and stress impacting 80%. Conclusion: The assessment of employee perceived IAQ and its potential impact on physical and mental well-being offers crucial insights for employers and facility managers. This study underscores the significance of evaluation of indoor air quality to enhance employee satisfaction, reduce stress-related symptoms, and ultimately promote a workspace that facilitates optimal productivity and well-being.
Keywords
Perceived Indoor air quality, Productivity, Quality of life, Survey, VOC, malodor, particulate matter
Assessment of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and Employee Well-being in the Workplace
Objectives: Office indoor air quality (IAQ) is paramount for the well-being and productivity of employees. Research indicates that poor IAQ is linked to heightened risks of respiratory issues including allergies and exacerbated asthma symptoms, along with headaches, fatigue, and stress. These health challenges can diminish concentration and cognitive function, leading to a decline in overall work performance. This study aims to explore the perceived IAQ from city municipal employees in public servicing office buildings in South Georgia. Methodology: Data collection involved distributing surveys via flyers and emails, with QR links to employees in the designated buildings. Participants shared their perceptions of IAQ and reported stress-related symptoms, respiratory issues, headaches, and more. Concurrently, objective measurements of IAQ parameters were obtained using indoor environment monitoring equipment. Results: Results from the survey, encompassing 105 participants (male (53.01%); female (45.78%)) across 16 randomly assigned office buildings, revealed concerning findings. The survey gathered data on more than 20 health-related symptoms related to poor indoor air quality conditions. The result shows that >10% of the total employees taking the survey (city hall (2.41%), police HQ (3.61%), and public health administration (3.61%) respectively) think the air quality of their office room is bad, and 54% of employees responded it is acceptable. Adverse health impacts were notable, with respiratory irritations affecting 34% of participants, headaches reported by 76.54%, difficulty in concentration experienced by 59.26%, and stress impacting 80%. Conclusion: The assessment of employee perceived IAQ and its potential impact on physical and mental well-being offers crucial insights for employers and facility managers. This study underscores the significance of evaluation of indoor air quality to enhance employee satisfaction, reduce stress-related symptoms, and ultimately promote a workspace that facilitates optimal productivity and well-being.
