Whether you are moving into a new office space, or you are about to renovate your old one there are many options to help you create greener and healthier place. Probably the first few things that pop-up into your mind are proper isolation, recycling, installing class “A“ air conditioners and setting all the devices in energy saving regime. But there are a few more things that will change your workplace into environmentally friendly and healthy office. Some of them can even boost your creativity and productivity at work.

LOWER THE VOCS EXPOSURE TO MINIMUM

VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are air polluters containing in almost all building materials – composite woods, wall paints, standard upholsteries and carpets. Everyday exposure to the most common VOCs – benzene, toluene and formaldehyde leads to nausea, headache, respiratory and eyes irritation. These substances are proven to cause liver, kidney, and nervous system damage and even – to be carcinogenic when exposure is at higher levels.

If you want to lower the levels of VOCs to minimum, better choose eco-friendly paints for your office walls. A lot of brands of commercial interior paints consist formaldehyde, lead and other toxic ingredients. Other common source of VOCs in your office can be the flooring. Very often carpets are produced using formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, and many more dangerous substances. One of the safest options is to install hardwood flooring instead of carpet when renovating the office. Bamboo is the ideal choice, due to its look, durability and also because bamboo is highly renewable material.

AIR QUALITY, FILTERING AND VENTILATION

The ventilation system is crucial for proper air circulation in your office. It will control the level of humidity and prevent mold appearance. Certain types of mold, like Stachybotrys chartarum are proved to cause respiratory problems. Some researchers even suggest that mold can be even carcinogenic. Although this thesis is quite controversial, scientific community agrees mildew, mold, and other fungi increase health risks.

To improve the air quality in your office the greenest and healthiest option is getting some real greenery. NASA scientist Dr. B.C. Wolverton studied the air-filtering abilities of houseplants. He found that Peace Lily, Chrysanthemum, Red-edged dracaena and some other plants significantly lower the amounts of dangerous VOCs like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene.

HIRE THE RIGHT CLEANING COMPANY

Changing cleaning procedures in your office is another step that makes a significant improvement in your work environment. Use green cleaning products instead of ordinary ones. People nowadays suffer from more skin irritations and allergies than ever. Asthma is also a common problem. Eco-friendly cleaning products will reduce the health risks at your office.

Another thing to take in mind if you want to make your office greener and healthier place is choosing the right cleaning company. No matter if you run small or big company you most probably hire professionals to clean the office. Today a lot of companies imply eco-friendly methods and detergents. Check what the cleaning company does with waste-waters in truck-mount units, remaining after deep cleaning of carpets and upholstery in your office. Always hire certified cleaners.