The world of business has put a priority on mental health and employee productivity. Here is how facilities management (FM) can help with this.
Productivity refers to the efficiency with which tasks or goals are accomplished, typically measured by the output produced relative to the input used, such as time, labour, or resources – something FM has a direct impact on.
No matter whether it is Hard FM or Soft FM, its results will reflect in how effectively individuals and businesses convert resources into desired outcomes.
Industry leaders Almeda share their thoughts on the topic.
Importance of mental health and support in business
Mental health and support are critical elements for success in business.
It impacts the individuals and also the overall performance and culture of businesses at a facility.
Modern businesses recognise the importance of mental health in the workplace.
Employees with good mental health tend to be more focused, engaged, and efficient. Mental well-being enables them to approach tasks with clarity, creativity, and better decision-making.
It can also help avoid burnout and employees taking more sick days.
Supporting mental health can lead to higher employee retention and job satisfaction.
When businesses are looking at employing new workers, those that are recognised as firms who focus on mental health are more appealing.
Overall, when leaders prioritise mental health, it creates a great culture and sets up success for the business.
Keys to employee productivity
Employee productivity is a crucial factor for the success of any business, and several key elements contribute to fostering a productive workforce, including facilities management.
It is widely known that employees perform best when they understand what is expected of them – and have the tools and resources to succeed in their tasks.
By providing employees with the right tools, technology, and resources, it will enhance productivity.
FM companies that remove outdated or inadequate technology will remove inefficiency and down time.
Where possible, by introducing automation, it will remove repetitive tasks allows employees to focus on more important work.
Speak to your facilities management company about how they can update or introduce a site to increase employee productivity.
Role of FM in employee productivity
Facilities management plays a crucial role in enhancing employee productivity by creating and maintaining an optimal work environment that supports all on site employees.
By managing the physical workspace and the surrounding facility, it ensures a ensure smooth operation, and leaves the businesses to focus on their day-to-day activities.
Properly designed workspaces, with ergonomic furniture and equipment, reduce physical strain, fatigue, and discomfort.
This helps employees work more comfortably and efficiently.
Facilities management ensures that offices and workstations are appropriately set up to promote health and productivity.
Leading FM companies will know how to effectively optimise office layouts which ensure that spaces are well-organised and conducive to specific work tasks.
They will create areas of collaboration, as well as others for individual focus.
FM can also ensure that the workplace complies with health and safety regulations. In the UK, there are many laws that facilities need to adhere to.
A safe environment reduces accidents and injuries, preventing absenteeism due to work-related issues and maintaining productivity.
When looking at the more technical aspects of a site, proper ventilation and air quality control contributes to the overall health and well-being of employees.
This is because poor air quality can impact employee health. For example, well-maintained HVAC systems promote a healthy, productive work environment.
FM plays a critical role in ensuring that technology infrastructure – Including internet connectivity, electrical power, and on-site hardware – runs smoothly.
When technology is well-maintained and supported, employees can avoid frustrating downtimes, delays, or technical issues, which can impact productivity.
Also, regular maintenance of office equipment, lighting, plumbing, and other critical infrastructure ensures that disruptions are minimised. Technology also impacts on maintenance.
Facilities management companies are also responsible for designing and maintaining all rooms and structures on site. Preventative maintenance can play a role in this.
By implementing energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly practices, it can create a more sustainable work atmosphere. These initiatives can also boost employee morale by aligning with corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals.
Finally, FM providers are responsible for creating and maintaining emergency protocols in the event of fires and safety evacuations – or even in the event of IT system failures.
All of these examples show the importance of facilities management when it comes to improving employee productivity.
If you would like to speak to Almeda about reactive maintenance, facilities management, or building fabric services call 0117 937 6320 or email [email protected].