In a recent survey, 50% of workers rated comfortable lighting as a higher priority than water quality, comfortable temperatures, and healthy food options. In the same study, one-third of employees wished they had more natural light in their workplace.
The health benefits of natural light are well-documented. Natural light can help you combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), reduce anxiety, maintain healthy blood pressure, and even boost your immune system. Now, many employers realize natural lighting is also beneficial for the workplace.
If you are a business owner who is thinking of adding more natural light to your workspace, here are several reasons why you should.
1. Reduced Eyestrain
The harsh, fluorescent lights you normally see in a work environment do not provide adequate lighting for employees. Over time, this causes eye strain and can even result in serious vision problems. Natural light reduces eye strain and is healthier for the eyes overall.
2. Healthier Employees
A recent study shows just how healthy natural light is for your employees. After experiencing natural light, employees reported an 84% reduction in blurred vision, eyestrain, and headaches, all of which can cause serious health issues. A key to having happy and healthy employees is to make use of natural light.
3. Increased Productivity
One of the best benefits of natural lighting is increased productivity. Having healthier and happier employees who are well-rested and energetic generally results in a higher level of productivity.
Natural light not only increases productivity, but it can also increase employee satisfaction.
4. Increased Energy
Your body naturally produces melatonin, a hormone responsible for your sleep-wake cycle. Because you should be awake during the daytime, sunlight slows the production of melatonin in the body.
Being exposed to natural office lighting can make you feel more energized and help keep your sleep rhythms on track.
5. Boosted Vitamin D
One of the many benefits of natural light in the workplace is boosted vitamin D. Getting enough vitamin D is important for your bones, teeth, and immune system. Because many people spend most of their time indoors, having natural light in the workplace is a great way to get in some vitamin D.
6. Reduced Energy Costs
Another benefit of natural light in the workplace is a reduced energy bill. When you make use of natural lighting and cut back on traditional commercial lighting, you will use less energy and be charged less on your bill. As a bonus, making uses of natural light is a great way to be more energy efficient in your workplace.
There Are Many Benefits of Natural Light in the Workplace
By adding more natural light in the workplace, your employees can experience the many benefits of natural light.
They will experience better vision, improved focus, increased productivity, and increased energy. The extra vitamin D will give you happier and healthier employees. As a bonus, you will save money on your energy bill.
Adding natural light in your workplace is a win-win for all involved, whether employees are dealing with SAD or not. Visit our Real Estate page for more property improvement ideas and interior decorating tips for your home or office.
