The WELL Building Standard: Biophilia and Air

In an era of greater health and hygiene standards, businesses are under increasing pressure to ensure the safety of their workforce.

The importance of Air and Biophilia on wellbeing

According to the WELL Building Standard, workers spend approximately 90% of their time in enclosed spaces. That’s a LOT of time! All of that time spent away from the great outdoors, of which humans are naturally drawn towards, can have a deeply profound effect on both physical and mental health. The impact of indoor toxic pollutants on our health can be damaging and even lead to cancer.

It is for this very purpose that the Air and Biophilia element invites workspace designers to consider the support of environmental qualities for improved health benefits. Important factors within the Standard include the optimisation of air quality, good ventilation, air filtration and pollution management.

The inclusion of furniture choices that can be utilised both indoors and outdoors are hugely impactful for health benefits, and the addition of biophilia where possible provides a much-desired human connection with nature. Biophilia is proven to have a positive impact on cognitive function, focus and stamina and, more significantly, the emphasis on plant life has a direct impact on air quality.

Furniture can play a large part in helping you achieve the WELL Building Standard certification. Furniture choices that promote better air quality and improve mental and physical health are a must-have for any workspace. More importantly, you too can raise your health standards by promoting a ‘Person First’ Environment.