Poor Air Quality and HR-Related Issues

In today’s fast-paced business environment, human resources (HR) managers and environmental, health, and safety (EHS) professionals face many challenges, from talent acquisition to ensuring a safe and motivating workplace. However, one critical factor often flies under the radar but has profound implications on HR practices: air quality. In manufacturing, poor air quality can significantly affect employees’ health, morale, and motivation, leading to broader implications for the organization.

Morale and Motivation

Imagine working in an environment with hazy and polluted air. It’s not just uncomfortable; it’s demotivating. Employees are the lifeblood of any organization, and their morale is crucial for maintaining productivity. Poor air quality can lead to discomfort, illness, and general malaise among staff members, directly impacting their motivation to perform. HR managers and EHS professionals must prioritize indoor air quality (IAQ) to foster a healthy, vibrant workplace where employees feel energized and valued.

Retention and Recruitment

Talented individuals have a plethora of options in today’s job market. They’re not just looking for a paycheck but a place where they feel healthy, supported, and able to thrive. Poor air quality can tarnish an organization’s reputation, making it a less desirable workplace. The result? High turnover rates and difficulties attracting top talent. Ensuring clean, fresh air is not just about compliance with health and safety regulations but the company’s values and commitment to its employees’ well-being.

A maintenance manager at a cold heading facility in the Chicago area told us that he had initially refused the job offered at this facility because of the poor air quality in the manufacturing area. About a year later, the company reached out to him after making impressive improvements to their air quality, and he accepted the job.

Health and Safety Risks

The implications of poor air quality extend beyond discomfort. Long-term exposure to pollutants can lead to serious health issues, including respiratory conditions, heart disease, and worsened allergies. For HR managers and EHS professionals, this translates into increased health and safety risks, potential increases in sick days, and higher healthcare costs. By investing in good IAQ, companies can mitigate these risks, demonstrating a proactive stance on health and safety that benefits everyone in the organization.

Not addressing poor air quality can also lead to other health and safety risks, such as slippery floors and potential health hazards. For example, in a manufacturing facility with inadequate air filtration, airborne particles can settle on floors and make them slick, increasing the chances of slip-and-fall accidents. Similarly, poor air quality can affect employees’ health, especially those with conditions such as asthma. Airborne oil or coolant mist can cause irritation to the eyes and respiratory tract and potentially cause long-lasting effects on employees’ health. 

Strategies for Improvement

Addressing air quality concerns requires a multifaceted approach. Here are some strategies that HR managers and EHS professionals can implement:

• Evaluate the Process: Can anything be changed to eliminate or reduce the mist or smoke generated by the machinery?
• Regular Air Quality Assessments: Conduct assessments to identify pollutants and sources of poor air quality in the workplace. This can help formulate targeted interventions.
• Enhanced Filtration Systems: Invest in filtration solutions designed for your manufacturing process that effectively capture and remove particulate from the air.
• Education and Awareness: Educate employees about the importance of air quality and how they can contribute to maintaining a healthy environment, such as closing machine cabinets and conveyor covers whenever possible.
• Policy Development: Develop clear policies to maintain optimal air quality and integrate them into the company’s broader health and safety protocols.

In conclusion, the quality of the air we breathe at work is not just an environmental or health issue. It’s a critical HR concern impacting employee morale, retention, recruitment, and safety. By taking proactive steps to ensure clean air, HR managers and EHS professionals can create a healthier, more motivating environment that supports the organization’s most valuable asset: its people.