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Employees need to take a load off now and then, and they also need a space to eat and stay social. More than the standard canteen, a better break zone is possible to keep employee morale up and enhance the overall experience for everyone at the office. But what can you do? From creating different zones to focusing on relaxation for employees, here are some ideas.
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Focus on Safety Accessibility First
Any space for employees should be safe, and there are great efforts most companies go to to ensure this, even if they are for compliance reasons. However, break zones should also be accessible and easy to navigate for everyone. This includes ramps for wheelchairs, enough space for getting around, and even flooring. A commercial paving company can help integrate zones with upgrades such as smooth surfaces, easier elevation, and durable flooring materials.
Zoning a Better Office Break Zone
A survey by WorkLife found that 48% of employees skip lunch at least once per week for various reasons. However, an inviting space that appeals to workers can help them feel more at ease when taking breaks to recharge, and zoning different areas is a powerful method:
- Add a dining zone with tables, bins, and access to cleaning products.
- Arrange a social zone with circular seating to encourage people to interact.
- Think about a quiet space away from activity and roads for some rest and peace.
Provide Plenty of Shade and Rain Cover
Of course, it depends where your office is located, but the weather can be pretty undependable and unpredictable. One minute, the birds are out as everyone enjoys the sun, and the next, it’s as if God himself decided upon a second deluge! Either way, workers need some cover from the sun’s UV rays and the cold, wet rain! Covered and uncovered areas provide a suitable blend of areas where workers can enjoy the sun but take shelter if they need to when breaking outdoors.
Seating for a Better Office Break Zone
A recent poll found that 26% of people find it hard to make friends at work, and being social doesn’t come easy to everyone. There are a few ways to make employee break times better, and a better office break zone really does rely on everyone being comfortable in the space:
- Invest in durable and weather-resistant seating that doesn’t wear away easily.
- Arrange seating in various formations that appeal to different people and situations.
- Any cushions provided must be weather-resistant and very easy to clean.
Weather resistant seating will save on costs and keep the space looking tidy for a long time. Seating arrangements can be vital, as some workers enjoy social interaction while others prefer alone time. Cleaning cushions will also cost, so durable accessories are more cost -effective.
Heating and Cooling the Space
Further to comfort, temperature control is vital. Employees who are either too hot or too cold aren’t likely to perform at their best, whether working or taking breaks. Of course, this is much easier for indoor break rooms, but it gets complex when addressing outdoor break zones. Fortunately, outdoor heating is pretty reasonably priced these days, with products such as gas and electric parasol heaters, and you can consider outdoor misting fans for the hotter months.
A Better Office Break Zone with Relaxation
A relaxed and happy employee is more productive, but stress is a major factor in the modern workplace. In the UK, for example, 79% of workers experience moderate to high-stress levels at work on a regular basis. Relaxation in break zones can be a lifeline to stressed workers:
- A space with plenty of greenery and flowers encourages employee relaxation.
- Calming sounds such as chimes and lighting add to the calmer atmosphere.
- Wi-Fi access and outlets allow employees to take a break with their smartphones.
Get Employees Involved
A business might be owned by an individual or a group, but the place is for everyone. Workers are happier at their jobs when they feel valued and connected to the company. Given that the break room or zone is the main place for employees to disconnect for a while, it makes sense to get them involved in how it is shaped. Poll the workforce for ideas about what they would like and ask for feedback about improvements that can be made to enhance the overall space.
Summary
Safety and accessibility are critical when designing a better office break zone, but there is more to it than that. Even arranging seating in ways that encourage interaction can make the workplace more social. Of course, asking employees about what they want must always be considered, too. That way, everyone will feel more connected while having their needs met.
