Office workers are among the most unhealthy group of people in the labour market as the nature of the role means that many employees have bad health habits. But what are the health risks and what can be done?

Back problems

Most office workers spend a large amount of their day sat at a desk, usually in seats that are less than ideal. This can mean a high number of people working in this environment have aches and pains in their back, especially their lower spine.

Employees can help reduce their risk of developing severe back problems by taking regular breaks from their desk. Even just stretching your legs to make a hot drink can help the problem. During the day, it’s also important to help maintain a good posture throughout the day and adjust your screen and chair to the ideal position.

Heart disease

It is common for office workers to move very little during their day, and then when they get home they are so drained that all they want to do is have their evening meal and spend time on the sofa. However, having such an inactive lifestyle can put you at a much higher risk of developing heart disease, as well as other health conditions.

To avoid this, it’s important for employees to lead a healthier lifestyle that includes getting the right nutrition, having regular exercise, and getting plenty of sleep.

Eye strain

Sitting at a desk and staring at a screen can be the ideal environment to develop eye strain or even cause vision problems in long-term cases.
To avoid having issues in this area, it’s important to take regular breaks away from your screen. Although this may seem impossible, even a short period away from your desk can give your eyes their much-needed rest.

Employers can help their staff by encouraging breaks every so often and ensuring there is a fresh supply of water, or water coolers, around the office. It’s also important to have the right screens for your workers to use.

Stress

Stress is a number one issue for workers in many jobs, and people in an office are no exception.
The best way to help control your own stress, apart from taking your regular breaks away from the office, is to try and get the ideal work-life balance. Try to do something productive in your spare time, such as reading a book or going out for a run. Doing something physical can really help to reduce your stress levels and will help you sleep well, which further improves your health.

General illness

The amount of bacteria that accumulates on desks would make anyone wince, and the fact that many office workers eat at their chair, puts them at a huge risk of developing illness.

The best way to deal with this is to go out for your lunch, which should be encouraged by employers. Companies should also ensure that they do not berate people that phone in sick, as it is best for the wider business in the long run.

(Source: blog.dacadoo.com)