SUFFERING with a headache or runny nose in the office doesn’t always mean you’ve been staring at the computer too long, or are getting a cold. It may be the actual work environment that’s making you ill.

The charity Allergy UK estimates that about 5.7 million people could be allergic to their workplace after its research found that 95 per cent of office workers questioned suffered from a multitude of health problems caused by their office environment.

Nearly all of the workers, who were primarily allergy sufferers, had one or more symptoms including headaches, nasal problems, eye conditions, dry throats, breathing difficulties, lethargy and skin irritations in the office.

Fortunately, allergic employees don’t need to change jobs to improve their health – just opening windows, regularly wetdusting surfaces and making sure carpets are well-vacuumed are some of the simple measures that can reduce indoor allergies.

Lindsey McManus, deputy chief executive of Allergy UK, points out that many people who are allergic to their offices may not have made the connection between their symptoms and the workplace.

She says: “People who get thick heads, blocked-up noses and sore eyes that they just put up with ought to think about whether it’s caused by something at work.

“You might have had a week off and felt fine and then gone back to work and got the symptoms again.

Ask yourself what it could be.

“It might not be severe enough to stop you working, but it could be addressed relatively easily – simple changes can really make a difference.”

TIPS TO AVOID OFFICE ALLERGIES

  • Ensure there’s clean air in the office, through open windows, trickle vents or an air conditioning system.
  • Check that heating, ventilation and air conditioning units are regularly serviced.
  • If the office is carpeted, urge employers to replace carpets with smooth or flocked Allergy UK-approved flooring.
  • Ensure the office is cleaned regularly and efficiently.
  • Take control of your desk, keeping it clear and uncluttered, and wet-dust it twice a week.
  • Hang coats away from the desk and ‘traffic’ areas to prevent dust and allergens from being disturbed and released into the air.
  • Drink plenty of water, as this can help flush allergens from the system.
  • For more information, visit allergyuk.org or call 01322 619898.