Sitting in front of a computer all day can lead to all sorts of problems, from eye strain to back pain.
That’s why it’s generally recommended that desk-based staff take regular screen breaks, so they can stretch, change posture and rest their eyes.
But in truth, many aren’t following this advice, and spending far too long at their desks.
In fact, a survey by workplace product supplier AJ Products has found that nearly one in three desk-based employees spend three hours or more at their desk without taking a break.
And this is having serious consequences.
For example, figures showed that four hours at a desk without interruption can lead to stress levels going up by 18%.
Meanwhile, the research showed that working two hours without a break can negatively affect a person’s mental health.
So it’s really important that employers actively encourage and promote the benefits of regular desk breaks.
Otherwise, they risk encouraging presenteeism, low productivity and a slump in morale.
Who’s most likely to stay at their desk?
Hybrid workers are most likely group to stay at their desk for too long, as just 38.8% are taking hourly breaks.
That compares with 41.1% of office workers, and 44.9% who work remotely full-time.
Overall, just 41.5% of people who work at a desk take at least one break an hour.
The survey also found that younger employees are the least likely to step away from their desks, as just 31.6% of 25 to 34-year-olds take hourly breaks.
Workplace wellbeing should be a priority for employers
Responding to the figures, Helen Beebe of AJ Products (UK) said they underscore the “urgent need to prioritise workplace wellbeing initiatives”.
“The key to achieving a better workplace health is to have movement regularly dispersed throughout the day,” she commented.
“Frequent desk breaks are just one element of this, and probably the easiest to implement, with far reaching benefits for mental health and efficacy.’
Ms Beebe went on to urge employers to educate younger workers in particular about the importance of taking regular breaks, as this is “vital to safeguarding long-term health”.
She added that the results point to an “urgent need for healthier workplace habits across the board”, so that all employees can benefit from better physical and mental wellbeing.
Written by James Glynn
Senior Financial Content Writer
