3 key points how Natural Light improves productivity

Simply put, daylight can have a huge positive impact on wellness in the workplace. Natural light in a work area can have a number of positive effects, including higher productivity, improved employee retention, and a greater sense of job satisfaction. It is difficult to argue against the benefits that increasing natural light in the workplace could bring, especially when it is proven to increase energy and alertness, and to decrease depression and mental health issues.

The Studies

In one study undertaken at Lockheed Martin, it was reported that there was a 15% increase in productivity after the office's daylight was increased. Other studies have shown strong economic effects of natural light, and some papers in the US claim that it can boost productivity by up to 20%. By making jobs more sustainable and environmentally friendly, with a focus on energy efficiency, we can create a healthier, more confident, and more productive workforce. A 2017 study published by the National Sleep Foundation found that workers exposed to high levels of natural light in the office reported better quality sleep than workers who were not exposed to such levels. Several studies have been conducted to show that there is a strong correlation between improving sleep and feeling happier at work. This again shows how natural light can have a great effect on employees and their whole lives, not just at work. It was found employees at a window workstation received on average more than twice as much light as during working hours and slept an average of 46 minutes more per night than employees who did not have natural light at the workplace.  A study conducted at the end of 2017 by Professor Alan Hedge of the Department of Design and Environmental Analysis at Cornell showed that employees seated within 10 feet of a window reported an 84% decrease in eyestrain, headaches, and blurred vision symptoms. [caption id="attachment_17132" align="alignnone" width="401"] Voile blinds maximise daylight. Picture credit: www.stansons.co.uk[/caption]

Natural Light and Planting

Planting also has a massive impact on the workplace and the productivity of the staff. People respond extremely positively to planting and greenery, and most planting is extremely dependant on natural light. Planting without light won't survive, and thus natural light is required to keep the plants looking at their best, and the productivity and happiness of the employees up! This is another way how natural light improves productivity.

So, whether you're looking for ways to make the most of natural light in your current office or are looking at options for a new space, there's plenty of options to optimise natural light in the workplace. Understanding the impact that different light sources can have on people in the workspace can help to reap the benefits of natural light in many ways.