One of the biggest problems that many workers must face is dealing with the workplace temperature. Whether we are in an office that is too hot or too cold can have an impact on our productivity. Therefore, managers and business owners need to make sure they are giving their staff a comfortable space to work. Even when AC expenses might be concerning, the impact of workplace temperature on employee productivity will lead to higher, and more serious expenses in the long run. These are some important aspects to keep in mind regarding workplace temperature.
Hot vs Cold Temperature
To begin with, the impact of workplace temperature on employee productivity can vary depending on the temperature itself. However, being in an office that is too hot or too cold can definitely have a detrimental effect on our staff. For example, when workers struggle to keep themselves warm in a cold office, they are more likely to make more mistakes. On the other hand, when working in an overly heated office, employees are more likely to feel fatigued, irritable, and having difficulties concentrating.
AC Costs Are Worth Making
Now, some offices tend to keep their AC units running as low as possible, not in terms of temperature, but in terms of actual performance. Using air conditioning, heating, and ventilation systems do represent a cost for every business. However, some companies tend to minimize these costs as much as possible. The impact of workplace temperature, on the other hand, can negatively and significantly affect our staff performance. In the long run, unsatisfied, uncomfortable, fatigued, and sick employees will represent a higher cost than turning on the AC.
Men and Women React Differently
Much has been written about the so-called “battle of the sexes” regarding office temperature. We all know that men prefer colder room temperatures than women. However, recent studies have shown that this thermostat dispute goes beyond gender group preferences. Colder temperatures can affect women’s productivity in the workplace more than men’s productivity. Therefore, it is important to make sure everybody feels comfortable and set the thermostat to a temperature that everybody agrees.
What the OHSA Recommends
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, also known as the OHSA doesn’t have a particular recommendation or set of guidelines to follow regarding office climates. However, they are in fact aware of the impact of workplace temperature on employee productivity. The technical handbook of the agency does address this issue, though. It recommends setting temperatures between 68 and 76 degrees Fahrenheit. This will create a comfortable and productive environment for everybody.
