Osmond Ergonomics

This article was originally emailed as our monthly Workplace Design & Management newsletter at 11:00 on 16/06/2016. You can view older newsletters here and register to receive them monthly.

ACOUSTICS

Acoustics was a ‘hot topic’ at Clerkenwell Design Week and I have been thinking about why it has taken so long to become a key part of the workplace agenda. More than 20 years of research points to lost productivity and health issues as a result of noise distraction so it seems the current level of awareness has been a long time coming. Have we finally come to appreciate how important it is? Certainly, all these factors apply:
1.    We understand the concept of (mental and physical) wellbeing
2.    We are more open to discussions about stress and mental health
3.    Modern workplace design and agile working patterns give greater flexibility to adapt the workplace
4.    We have the tools, products and technology to identify the issues and find a solution
To discuss your own acoustics issues, please contact us.

PODS

As organisations look to break up their open plan offices for agile working programmes and activity based working, pods are often an effective way to create cellular offices and meeting rooms, as well as concentration, contemplation and privacy zones. The variety of styles and options is extensive and their modular design and accessory options ensure maximum flexibility, We will be pleased to discuss possible applications

BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING

I also had several conversations about BIM during Clerkenwell Design Week. The need for BIM in government projects is driving rapid deployment in the furniture industry and many of our seating and furniture suppliers now offer BIM files. Please contact us for further information.

DOING GREAT WORK WELL – BAKER STUART

Baker Stuart is a professional consultancy focused on supporting change and transforming the way we work. They work with and support public and private sector organisations throughout the UK to use the working environment as a catalyst to drive positive change and improve service delivery. www.bakerstuart.com

This article was originally emailed as our monthly eBulletin at 11:30 on 08/06/2016. You can view older eBulletins here and register to receive them monthly.

EXPERTS RECOMMEND A NAP AFTER LUNCH

Only a few weeks after my April Fools’ prank, it seems we have new research that (almost) endorses my spoof proposals! This article in the Daily Telegraph in May quotes Australian research recommending daily naps of 15-30 minutes. With growing concerns about sleep-deprivation, especially amongst the young, perhaps my suggestions were not so ridiculous after all!

FACILITIES SHOW

If you are attending the IOSH Conference or Safety & Health Expo at Excel this year, please make time to come and visit us on Stand M1305 (just by Entrance 2) at the Facilities Show. We shall be showing a range of sit-stand furniture ideas and talking about everything from Acoustics to Zero Inbox. You will need to show determination and fortitude to escape the Health & Safety zone but your efforts will be rewarded by much more interesting conversations and products than PPE and safety signs!

ONE WORKFORCE, FOUR GENERATIONS

In conjunction with Cardinus Risk Management, we are presenting a free seminar at the IIRSM headquarters on Wednesday June 29th, 2016. It is now possible to employ members of four different generations in one organisation and each of those groups presents different opportunities and challenges. We shall be addressing those differences and exploring how it is possible to create an inclusive approach to accommodate them all and benefit from the diversity. Follow the link above for more information and free registration.

WIRELESS MINI KEYBOARD

The withdrawal of the Microsoft Arc compact keyboard has left us with a gap in our product range for those seeking a wireless RF (rather than Bluetooth) mini keyboard. Enter the Minimus-X! It offers a number of desirable features including full numeric keypad in a small footprint, robust steel casing, scissor action keys and soft, tactile feedback. It also comes with a wireless mouse which connects to the same compact wireless RF dongle.

EBULLETIN FEEDBACK WINNER

Many thanks to those who took part in our feedback survey which closed at the end of May. The draw winner was Jeni Bryant of Carmarthen who receives a £200 voucher for a  Red Letter Day experience. This is enough to get her, amongst other things, dinner for two, a PGA golf pro masterclass, white water rafting or a helicopter flight. Feedback was generally very positive and we have had a couple of good suggestions which we shall be following up in due course.