Air quality in the workplace significantly affects productivity, according to a study conducted by researchers from the Technical University of Denmark. The data states poor air quality decreases office work performance by 6-9%.

1. Whipple Service Champions
Poor Air Quality Reduces
Work Productivity and
Customer Satisfaction

2. Air quality in the workplace significantly affects productivity, according to a study conducted by
researchers from the Technical University of Denmark. The data states poor air quality decreases office
work performance by 6-9%.
The results, therefore, emphasize the importance of good ventilation in offices and work spaces. On the
surface, good ventilation ensure s that there is a constant supply of “fresh air,” which is a welcome
respite in corporate offices (most of which are enclosed, windowless spaces). There are other benefits,
however, mostly related to health, which translate to better overall performance at work.
When Energy Conservation Practices Compromise Air Quality
Businesses always look for ways to minimize overhead spending. One way might be to cut back on the
office space budget. As a result, employees could end up sharing cramped and overheated office spaces.
Although such an environment doesn’t seem to cause poor work performance directly, studies show that
it could negatively affect indoor air quality, and, in turn, influence worker productivity.

3. According to an analysis of three independent experimental studies, improving air quality can pull office
work performance up by 5%. The paper goes on to say that the gains in productivity will more than make
up for the cost of improving HVAC and HEPA filtration systems.
Benefits to Health
The study attributes the result above to the fact that employees experience fewer health issues with
improved indoor air quality. Particulates in the air can trigger asthma and other respiratory problems,
after all. Moreover, air that’s too “dry” or “heavy” can cause headaches, colds, fatigue, nausea, dizziness,
and eye irritation. One or a combination of these issues can divert an employee’s attention from their
work or even compel him or her to take a day off.

4. Indeed, indoor air quality has a profound effect on people’s health. The concern on quality is not even
exclusive to the workplace; it is also a legitimate concern at home. Fortunately, devices and filtration
systems are available for both venues. For office administrators, investing in ventilation and air filters
will pay off through improved employee performance and positive customer impression.
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15330777
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/241837912_Cost-
benefit_analysis_of_improved_air_quality_in_an_office_building
http://mech-ing.com/journal/Archive/2013/1/87_Ceravolo.pdf
https://www.aiha.org/about-ih/Pages/Improving-Indoor-Air-Quality-at-Work.aspx
http://www.whippleplumbing.com/