Talent & Tech Asia Summit 2024
human resources online

The worst places to sit in the office

You may not believe in Fung Shui, but scientific studies have revealed the right office seating plan can increase profits by 15%. As such, smart bosses should put in more effort to come up with the perfect seating plan to increase employees chances to be successful.

In case you're still working on your perfect seating plan, here are five bad places in the office where working desks should not be placed according to CTgoodjobs.

1. Near the printerPrinters release particulate matter into the air which is as bad as breathing in second hand smoke. Sitting near the printer can lead to respiratory problems and even cancer. Employers should keep the printers away from staff members by putting them in a separate room.

2. Windowless roomsSad stories of the underprivileged of Hong Kong living in windowless cubicles are well-documented. Sadly many workers face a similar situation at work - working in a windowless room. Windowless offices are stuffy and employees tend to feel tired without fresh air. Moreover, it enhances the spread of germs, meaning one sick colleague can easily bring down the entire team.

3. Near the toiletIt goes without saying that the toilet is an unhygienic spot that employees should not sit close to. Additionally, colleagues going in and out of the toilet throughout the day can be distracting. One useful tip for unlucky employees sitting next to the toilet is to put some green plants on their desk to freshen up the place.

4. Near the serversThe radiation from computer servers is bad for health, and studies have suggested it can reduce fertility in men. It should really go without saying that exposing your employees to unneccesary health risks is something to avoid at all cost.

5. The hot-and-cold officeIn many offices, certain places are freezing cold, while others are unreasonably warm. Employers are advised to install ventilators near air vents for better ventilation and to reduce the temperature difference in the office.

For more practical advice on enhancing the office environment, this infographic from Cubicle Concepts offers some great ideas.

create-an-inspiring-workplace-in-2017

ALSO READ: The best office layout, according to Hong Kong professionals

Photo/ 123RF

Follow us on Telegram and on Instagram @humanresourcesonline for all the latest HR and manpower news from around the region!

Related topics

Related articles

Free newsletter

Get the daily lowdown on Asia's top Human Resources stories.

We break down the big and messy topics of the day so you're updated on the most important developments in Asia's Human Resources development – for free.

subscribe now open in new window