|
|
 |
|
   
|
||||||
|
|
INSIGHT MORE and more people are choosing to opt out of the commuter hell and work from home, where they can have a more flexible way of life and avoid so many stresses. The UK already has the most home workers in Europe with nearly seven million people spending some or all of their office hours at home. By 2005, that figure is expected to have grown to 8.3 million as demographic changes lead to a major re-structuring of the traditional workplace. The increase in single parents, coupled with the growth of two- income families - with men increasingly wanting to play a more hands- on role in childcare - have caused parents to reassess their working lives to encompass family needs. And feedback from those who do work at home shows reduced stress levels, happier home lives and greater job satisfaction, while managers enjoy increased productivity, reduced absenteeism and greater retention of quality staff. Learn to effectively manage stress and thus enjoy better emotional and physical health But having the right workstation is vital. Otherwise, aches and pains can occur and even, in serious cases, Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI). Luckily, building a mini-office need not cost a fortune. Many of the cheaper chains, such as Staples, are offering vast ranges to suit different needs and pockets. Choose ergonomically friendly furniture and make as much room as possible for yourself. Work comfortably and avoid stress by using a mouse pad, ensuring your monitor is a metre from your eyes, and your keyboard is at least 15cm in from the edge of your desk. To save space, go for a desk with a pull-out keyboard shelf. It's important to choose a chair that enables you to vary your position, while relieving the pressure on your thighs and providing you with the necessary lumbar and neck support. File your work where you can get your hands on it without leaving your workstation. And buy sufficient storage shelves, boxes or cabinets to keep clutter at bay. Get lighting right to avoid eye strain and headaches. Natural light is best, but remember to screen strong sunlight. At night, or away from a window, use a desk light that will illuminate your workstation and the area behind it. Many companies are also offering desks which can be subtly hidden behind doors at night - particularly handy if your office doubles as a living room or bedroom. Keep the room as airy as possible using light colours on the walls and add some potted plants or even a couple of personal photographs. Experts advise that you take a minimum of a five-minute screen break every hour to rest your eyes and do some stretching.
Did you find this material interesting?
Source: Evening News - Edinburgh
Discover
the great deals from top brand
name manufacturers.
|
|
|
