A recent survey by a major office supply chain has uncovered alarming trends regarding workplace health practices in Britain.
- About 31% of Britons have knowingly gone to work with an infectious illness, primarily due to overwhelming workloads.
- Additionally, unhealthy office environments are a concern, with 21% of workers identifying their workspace as unhealthy.
- The common practice of eating at one’s desk is highlighted as a key risk factor for spreading bacteria.
- A call for better hygiene practices at work is emphasized by experts and industry leaders.
In an effort to spotlight workplace health risks, a survey conducted by an office supply chain revealed that nearly one-third of British employees have attended work while knowingly infected with an illness. This decision is largely driven by the overwhelming pressure to manage excessive workloads, with 61% of respondents citing ‘too much work’ as their main reason. Despite the availability of remote work options, 28% of employees reported feeling compelled to work in the office.
The survey brings to attention another pressing issue within office environments: the unhealthy nature of many workspaces. 21% of participants labeled their workplaces as unhealthy, highlighting the need for change. An alarming 72% of workers have developed the habit of eating at their desks. This behavior poses significant health risks, as workstations, particularly keyboards, are often rife with bacteria like E.coli, Pseudomonas, and MRSA. Studies suggest keyboards can be dirtier than a toilet, making desk-eating a high-risk activity.
Gender-specific trends were observed, with 74% of women and 68% of men admitting to eating at their desks. Furthermore, basic hygiene practices are often neglected, with one in seven workers not using soap, and one in fifty skipping hand washing altogether. Men, in particular, exhibit less frequent hand hygiene practices, which increases health risks.
Monica Mauri, Vice President and Head of HR from the office supply chain, noted, “What we’re seeing is a worrying number of workers who feel the need to come into the office when sick. Employers need to make employees aware of the importance of staying home when ill, especially when it’s infectious.” She further stressed the importance of regular workstation cleaning given the rampant presence of harmful bacteria.
Sickness absence expert Adrian Lewis, Commercial Director for a notable absence management company, expressed concern over the issue, urging businesses to conduct thorough return-to-work interviews to ensure the health and readiness of employees post-illness. These practices not only monitor but support the well-being of the workforce effectively.
These findings underscore the urgent need for improved workplace health policies and hygiene practices to mitigate the spread of infectious diseases.
