A healthy work environment is the best way to keep employees happy. Most employers understand what it takes to make the work environment physically healthy, but emotional health is just as important for your employees. Let’s take a look at some things you can do to ensure an environment that is both physically and emotionally healthy for your employees.

The Physical

Keeping your workplace clean and up to safety code standards is a given. But that isn’t the extent of what you can do to provide a healthy environment.

1. Clean Air

With so many people in close quarters for hours on end, having clean air is essential. One of the best ways to clean the air is by using plants. Some plants purify the air better than others. In addition to the practical aspect, plants help provide a more comfortable, friendly appearance.

2. Ergonomic Furniture

Whether it’s a chair, a keyboard or an adjustable desk, having ergonomic furniture will eliminate many of the work-related aches and pains that come from working in the same position all day.

3. Personal Space

Decorative screens between desks can let employees feel have some breathing room. Personal space is more comfortable than constantly being “on display”. Physical walls create a division that can make employees feel isolated. Screens allow for a general feeling of connectedness while still providing personal breathing room.

The Emotional

Emotional health has been found to directly affect physical health. When creating a healthy work environment, you need to take emotional well-being into account. Here are some ways to do that:

1. Provide recognition

So often those in charge speak up when something goes wrong. Take time to recognize when things go well. Have “good news” meetings where you acknowledge what employees have accomplished.

2. Discourage cliques

When people separate into groups, others get left out. This opens the door to things like bullying. Make sure your employees realize that each person is a valuable member of your team. Enforce a no-bullying rule and don’t allow favoritism.

3. Listen

Let your employees know your door is open to them. Be willing to listen to their thoughts regarding the business. Allow them to come to you with personal issues that may be affecting their performance. Welcome suggestions and input.

4. Respect the individual

Your employees are so much more than “that man in Accounting” or “The Receptionist”. Make it a priority to learn everyone’s name, and use it. Learn about their personal lives. Who’s married? Is someone’s child having health problems? When you show your employees you see them as humans, not just workers, they feel respected and this leads to a positive mental state.

Final Words

These are a few of the ways you can make sure you’re providing a healthy working environment for your employees. If you haven’t done these things in the past, it’s never too late to start. If you have, continue them. In the end, it turns out as a win win for your business and your employees.