Physical environment

The physical work environment can be a source of stress and strain to workers. Employers can help to reduce these stresses by:

• Ensuring noise levels are kept as low as possible.
• Improving lighting levels and removing irritating flicker or glare.
• Improving temperature and ventilation.
• Providing well designed protective clothing and regular breaks in a warmer environment for workers who have to work in cold conditions or with frozen goods.
• Providing suitable rest areas away from the workstation for workers to have recuperative breaks.
• Reducing the need to use vibrating tools.
• Providing vibration absorbing grips on tools and by maintaining them in a good state of repair.