Is working from home affecting the health of employees?

A recent research project carried out by Fellowes Brands took place with 7,000 office workers across Europe. Employees were interviewed in  France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain and the United Kingdom. A staggering 39% suffered from back pain. See below for the full breakdown.

For those interviewed, “too many employers do not meet their obligations.” The key points covered were:-

• From workstation risk assessment to office equipment.
• The importance of taking breaks during the day.
• The importance of disconnecting from the working day.
• It would appear that many employees do not yet have what they need to be successful teleworking.

Unless employers take action to address this problem, the long term physical and mental health of company employees could be harmed.

Main results of the study

• One third of homeworkers (35% EU / 33% FR) experienced stress and anxiety.
• More than one in three people (37% EU / 39% FR) suffered from back pain.
• More than two thirds (71% EU / 65% FR) bought home office equipment. On their own funds.

Most study participants believe employers care more about productivity, results and the competitiveness of their company than from the well-being of their employees.

• A third of all espondents said they felt stressed (33%) and also lonely and isolated (33%).
• Over a third also suffer from eye pain (41%). Back pain (39%). And headaches (31%).
• Only half (50%) have a suitable home workstation. 12% admit to working from their sofa, 4% from their bed and 4% on the floor.
• When working from home, 42% of those surveyed believe that they should be available at all times of the day. 31% feel too busy to take a break.
• 49% of respondents say their home workstation causes more pain and strain than their office workstation.