According to the preliminary findings of new research, more than one in three employees (38%) in UK businesses say that air conditioning, heating, water and overall environment at their workplace is a regular talking point.

The findings have been revealed ahead of the publication of the latest Effective and Productive Workplaces (Ergronomics) research of 1,000 UK workers by Populus. The full report is due to be published in September.

Chris Wollen of research sponsors Ergro said: “Our research shows that talking about other employees or the boss are not the only subjects that people discuss over coffee in the kitchen. Thinking about air conditioning alone, which is a regular topic of discussion at this time of year, it is often simply not balanced correctly or well maintained and that prevents an optimum level of comfort being provided.”

He continued: “But when air conditioning is well managed most workplaces can enjoy good climate control for all, which our research also showed is vital for productivity. Getting it right is a win, win, win; happier employees, greater productivity and lower energy costs. Much the same can be said for other services such as hot water and heating too.”

To pre-order a copy of the Effective and Productive Workplaces report email ergronomics@ergro.co.uk