The Effects Air Conditioning Can Have on Employee Productivity and Wellness

Installing air conditioning in a workplace can provide plenty of positive effects on employee productivity and wellness. Depending on factors such as temperature, humidity, air quality and individual preferences, having an air conditioning system in place at work can create a comfortable space to be in, especially when it comes to offices and warehouses. As many employees are only now going back to the office or are operating through a hybrid remote routine, having home comforts such as air conditioning is becoming a necessity in terms of employee productivity and satisfaction. 

Benefits of having air conditioning at work:

• Provides a comfortable and consistent temperature
• Boosts productivity levels
• Reduces indoor pollutants and dust 
• Minimises mould and damp 
• Cleans the working environment 
• Reduces sickness and germs 

How air conditioning can affect productivity and wellness 

In the UK, employees are required to provide suitable heating and cooling solutions as well as adequate ventilation to create a safe and relaxing area. These systems should also be followed by regular risk assessments which should consider employee preferences, legal actions and thermal comfort. 

The main benefit of air conditioning is the fact that they create a comfortable working environment which delivers a consistent temperature that isn’t too hot or too cold. Creating a pleasant room temperature can improve concentration, alertness and cognitive performance while also reducing feelings of fatigue or drowsiness. Research has shown that when employees are too hot, this can lead to a decrease in mental capacity which ultimately affects productivity and wellness. With fully functioning air conditioning in place, employees will feel comfortable, full of energy and focused on the task at hand. When employees are too cold, it can have a negative effect on their work performance and mindset, setting them back and resulting in an uncomfortable atmosphere. 

Another way in which air conditioning can improve wellness specifically is through the health benefits that come with it. These systems can help to reduce indoor pollution, dust, mould, pollen and bacteria which, in turn, reduces the risk of respiratory problems and allergies. By circulating and filtering the air, air conditioning will create a cleaner, safer workplace, reducing sick days and promoting employee well-being. When installing workplace air conditioning, it’s vital to stay on top of things such as air conditioning maintenance to really benefit. If an air conditioning system is left unseen, it can accumulate dust and make the air worse than it was to begin with. 

One of the main issues with having air conditioning at work is the preferences of each employee. Every single person has a different body temperature which means people might have a different perception of what makes a comfortable space. The easiest way to face these issues is by providing alternative options such as fans, natural ventilation, vents or electrical heaters. Some employees could also see air conditioning as a distraction, however with modern technology, most units are minimal in the noise they produce and can also be installed in discreet places. 

Author details:
Lee Jackson, Managing Director, Lee Jackson Air Conditioning