Making Money as a Remote Worker: 3 Tips for Creating a Healthy WFH Environment

Working from home was out of the question a decade ago. But today, it has become the new normal. The findings of a new Pew Research Center survey have disclosed that 35%, or about a third, of workers with occupations that can be done remotely work from home all of the time. 

The opportunity to work remotely seems appealing to everyone, and why shouldn’t it? You don’t have to commute long hours. You can work in your PJs and answer emails snuggling on your couch instead of an office chair. 

However, setting up a dedicated home office is important to ensure you’re productive in the remote setting. Installing the right equipment in your remote workspace isn’t enough. You need to make sure your work-from-home space is healthy, as well. 

In this article, we’ll discuss some tips that you can follow to create a healthy workspace. 

#1. Invest in Ergonomic Furniture 

Nine-to-five jobs involve sitting for prolonged periods. However, those who work remotely put in more hours than those who work from the office. This prolonged sitting can be detrimental to your health. 

You are at risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders, i.e., disorders or injuries of the musculoskeletal system, which include nerves, muscles, joints, tendons, spinal discs, and cartilage. 

Thankfully, investing in ergonomic furniture can minimize your risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Go for a chair whose armrests, height, and lumbar support are adjustable so you can adjust it as per your needs. Such a chair will support your spine, reducing your risk of back pain and preventing long-term health issues. 

Instead of a regular desk, opt for an adjustable sit-stand desk. You can alternate between standing and sitting throughout your work hours. Adjustable desks improve heart health. Sitting for too long decreases the levels of HDL or high-density lipoproteins, good cholesterol significantly. However, your body will be able to manage HDL levels better when you stand for short durations while working. 

Ergonomic keyboards are also a must-have. They minimize strain on hands and wrists. Opt for split keyboards or those with a negative tilt. 

They keep wrists in a neutral position. This reduces stress on the tendons, muscles, and skeletal system, minimizing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. 

#2. Ensure Your Space is Free From Asbestos

You spend about eight hours or, sometimes, even more in your home office. Hence, it makes sense to ensure the space is free from toxic substances. 

One substance that is more of a concern in homes is asbestos. This toxic substance was used extensively in construction between the 1940s and 1970s. Per TorHoerman Law, old homes and buildings, popcorn ceilings, pipes and tanks, textured paints, cement slabs, and old floor tiles are some places that contain dangerous asbestos fibers. 

Asbestos can trigger a range of psychological and emotional responses, irrespective of whether the exposure is direct or secondary. You might experience increased fear, anxiety, and tension if you’re exposed to asbestos. 

The U.S., however, announced a ban on asbestos because it is carcinogenic. This carcinogen is responsible for approximately 40,000 deaths in the U.S. each year. These deaths typically occur in various cancers, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Asbestos exposure also causes asbestosis. 

Characterized by chronic scarring and inflammation of the lungs, asbestosis is caused by breathing asbestos fibers. Thousands of Americans have filed asbestosis lawsuits and continue to do so every year. 

Potential defendants in the lawsuit include raw asbestos suppliers, asbestos products manufacturers, and premise owners who allowed asbestos-containing products to be used on their property. 

Determining the exact settlement amount for the asbestosis lawsuit is challenging. Only an experienced asbestosis lawyer can help ascertain it depending on the evidence and damages incurred. However, attorneys estimate it could be anywhere between $5,000 and over $100,000.

Homes built before the 1980s are likely to have asbestos. The Abbotsford News reveals that over 700,000 homes across British Columbia are likely to contain asbestos. Consider hiring a certified asbestos inspector. They will inspect your space for asbestos and remove it safely. 

#3. Keep Your Mental Health in Check

Working remotely means you don’t have to spend time on a grueling commute. However, remote work affects the employees’ mental health. 

According to a study conducted by the Integrated Benefits Institute (IBI), employees who work fully remotely are more likely to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression than those who work from the office. Specifically, 40% of remote employees reported anxiety and depression symptoms. 

To keep your mental health in check, clearly delineate work hours from personal time. When you have sufficient time to relax and recharge, you won’t experience burnout. 

Take regular breaks. Use techniques like the Pomodoro technique, which involves 25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break. This will help you maintain mental clarity and reduce stress. Stay in touch with friends and colleagues through video calls, chats, and social media to combat isolation. 

To wrap up, creating a healthy work-from-home environment doesn’t end with setting up a comfortable desk and chair; it extends beyond that. 

You can create a workspace that is productive, comfortable, and healthy by following these tips. Remember to stick to a routine daily and limit distractions when working. This will further make you productive and help you maintain a work-life balance.