How facilities management contributes to employee well-being?

Facilities management contributes to employee well-being in many ways. In Southeast Asia countries, we spend long hours in the office. Unfortunately not all workplaces are designed for comfort and well-being. There are a lot of issues related to workplace that relates to facilities management.

Majority of workplaces seen facilities management (FM) as maintenance work for fixing broken lights or cleaning. However in reality FM plays a much bigger role in shaping the workplace experience. Traditional companies relies a lot on Human Resource department or equivalent to ensure employee well-being is managed. However, most organisations overlooked how FM contributes to employee well-being in a lot more ways than most organisations realised. Hence, employees may feel disengaged, unproductive, and even unhappy at work.

A Workplace That Supports Employee Well-being

Modern workplaces are changing, hence why FM needs to adapt. This is why, companies in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand are now focusing on employee well-being as a priority. A well-managed workplace will emphasise on:

Better Indoor Air Quality

Advanced ventilation and air filtration systems improve air circulation, reducing airborne contaminants such as dust, mould, and bacteria. Good air quality is linked to fewer sick days, enhanced cognitive function, and overall well-being. It is a crucial factor in workplace health.

Workplace Wellness Programs

Companies are increasingly implementing fitness facilities, mental health support services, and ergonomic office designs to enhance employee well-being. Standing desks, ergonomic chairs, and designated relaxation zones reduce strain and stress, improving both physical and mental health.

Ergonomic Furniture

Ergonomic furniture, such as adjustable desks, or supportive chairs can significantly reduce workplace injuries and enhance comfort. Proper ergonomics help prevent musculoskeletal disorders, boost productivity, and contribute to long-term employee health.

Technology-Driven Comfort

Smart lighting, temperature control, and occupancy sensors create a responsive and adaptive workplace. Personalised workspaces, automated climate control, and noise management solutions contribute to higher productivity and employee satisfaction.

Natural Light and Comfort Lighting Levels

Proper lighting design means natural light exposure and artificial lighting at appropriate lux levels (typically 300-500 lux for office spaces). It can enhances focus, reduces eye strain, and supports circadian rhythms. Daylight harvesting systems and adjustable task lighting help maintain optimal illumination for different activities throughout the day.

Flexible and Hybrid Workspaces

With the rise of remote and hybrid work models, offices are transforming into dynamic environments that promote collaboration and flexibility. Activity-based working, hot-desking, and breakout spaces encourage movement and reduce the monotony of fixed workstations.

Biophilic Design and Green Spaces

Integrating natural elements such as indoor plants, green walls, and access to outdoor spaces has been shown to improve mood, reduce stress, and enhance creativity. Companies are investing in sustainable workplace designs to create healthier and more inspiring work environments.

Enhanced Workplace Safety

FM teams are ensuring workplaces meet the highest health and safety standards, including touchless entry systems, regular sanitation, and well-maintained emergency response protocols. A safe environment fosters employee confidence and productivity.

When FM teams focus on these aspects, employees feel more engaged, productive, and satisfied at work.

How Facilities Management Can Improve Your Workplace Experience

Facilities management plays a crucial role in ensuring that all these elements are effectively implemented and maintained to support employee well-being:

• Indoor Air Quality: FM teams oversee HVAC system maintenance, conduct air quality monitoring, and implement air purification strategies to ensure a healthy workplace environment.
• Workplace Wellness Programs: FM professionals design, manage, and maintain fitness areas, relaxation zones, and mental wellness spaces, ensuring their accessibility and functionality.
• Ergonomic Furniture: FM is responsible for sourcing, installing, and maintaining ergonomic furniture to promote employee comfort and prevent workplace injuries.
• Technology-Driven Comfort: FM teams integrate smart lighting, temperature controls, and noise management solutions to optimize employee comfort and energy efficiency.
• Lighting and Natural Light Exposure: FM ensures that workspaces receive adequate natural light and that artificial lighting meets appropriate lux levels for comfort and productivity.
• Flexible Workspaces: FM adapts office layouts to accommodate flexible work arrangements, providing functional spaces that foster collaboration and efficiency.
• Biophilic Design: FM incorporates and maintains green spaces, ensuring that natural elements remain a vital part of the workplace environment.
• Workplace Safety: FM enforces health and safety protocols, conducts risk assessments, and ensures compliance with regulatory standards to create a secure working environment.

By integrating these elements effectively, FM contributes significantly to employee satisfaction, retention, and overall business performance. By adopting these strategies, FM teams can create a workplace that promotes employee well-being, engagement, and productivity.

Final Thoughts

The workplace experience is no longer just about having an office to work. It’s about creating an environment where employees can thrive. With the right FM strategies, companies can build healthier, happier, and more productive workplaces for the future. With current trend of hybrid work arrangement or remote, FM will have more challenges in adapting to the needs of various employees’ need.

Read further here on how smart buildings features can improve and create a productive workplace for employees and technology adoption for facilities management in Southeast Asia in our article.