Rentokil Tropical Plants
The impacts of Indoor Environment Quality on workplace productivity
There is a strong correlation between Indoor Environment Quality (IEQ) and employee health and productivity. Studies estimated that poor IEQ is costing Australian businesses 12 billion dollars each year in lost productivity and increased health costs (GreenBuilding Council Australia, 2005).
Other studies have also revealed that children studying in an environment with healthy air quality and generous provision of natural day light are healthier and more productive (GreenBuilding.com, 2007).
Poor IEQ causes headaches, poor concentration as well as other long term health issues such as asthma. These health issues often lead to staff absenteeism and turnover,which ultimately results in lower productivity and poor staff morale.
Do Interior plants improve Indoor Environment Quality (IEQ)?
Indoor plants can reduce employee sick leaves and improve workplace productivity. A recent research conducted in a Swedish Hospital found that absentee rate fell 10% after interior plants were brought into the workplace. Other studies also shown that plants can reduce workplace stress and decrease respiratory disorders (Beauchamp, 2007).
According to Professor Margaret Burchett from the Faculty of Science at the University ofTechnology, Sydney, interior plants can significantly improve worker satisfaction and productivity; and that the benefit of interior plants greatly exceeds the cost of hiring and maintaining these plants (Beauchamp, 2007).
Sources:
Green Building Council Australia, 2005, Feedback to the Productivity Commission’s ‘Draft Energy Efficiency Report
GreenBuildings.com, 2007, U.S. Mayor Support Green Schools Resolution
Beauchamp, 2007, Budding recruits