After a hot summer throughout Alberta, keeping cool is on the mind of most Albertans. Air conditioning is easily the most effective approach to stay cool during heat waves, but many workplaces lack air conditioning (or at least lack air conditioning that keeps you cool enough while at your desk). Fortunately there are simple ways to keep cool while working without relying on air conditioning.
Incorporate Airflow
The key to keeping cool while at work is airflow. Air conditioning, ventilation and fans are serious tactics to airflow, but there are solutions that can be implemented right at your desk.
Use Mesh Chairs
Mesh chairs allow air to circulate throughout the seat and back while still providing support to remain comfortable throughout the entire workday. Chairs with extensive padding are excellent for ergonomics, but they lack the ability to breathe. Mesh is the cool alternative.
To balance ergonomics with airflow, mesh chairs come in a variety of arrangements: mesh seats and backs or just mesh backs. Some chair designs have mesh seats and backs but are designed for long-term comfort. With three layers of mesh on the seatback, the chair has tremendous lumbar support with a lightweight design. The seat is a tight-weave mesh, which maintains support while providing airflow. This lightweight chair offers manual adjustments, complete range of motions and provides the sense that you’re sitting on air.
Many office chairs have padded seats with mesh backs – a design that offers comprehensive ergonomics with a cool seatback.
Reduce sunlight
Another simple way to cool your workstation is reducing the amount of sunlight. Closing window blinds or setting up temporary dividers can minimize warming from sunlight. To block light but not constrict workstations, modern privacy dividers are increasingly sophisticated.
As the summer heat continues into the fall, keep cool by blocking sunlight while allowing air to flow throughout the office.
