More and more architects and interior designers are recognizing the impact that the building envelope has on the physical and mental well-being of its' inhabitants. Since workers are the main expense in modern business, many studies and steps are being taken to ensure a healthy, comfortable and functional office space for the workforce. Products with ergonomic benefits are being sought that help prevent eyestrain (anti-glare screens), musculoskeletal disorders (phone headsets) and Sick Building Syndrome.

For over 30 years, MechoShade has actively promoted ergonomically friendly design in the workplace through the use of our visually transparent roller shading systems.

Many ergonomic experts recommend an anti-glare screen for the computer to prevent light reflections off the monitor. But eyestrain isn't always caused by glare off the computer screen. A February 2000 CBSHealthwatch.com article on Computer Vision Syndrome states: “The main causes of CVS are improper viewing conditions and poor workplace ergonomics.…..The most important thing is to establish proper lighting….By minimizing the glare and ambient light in the room……eyestrain will be reduced.” Plus, an anti-glare screen does nothing for light and heat resistance to enhance your employee's comfort. A drawn MechoShade filters the light through the window, eliminating glare throughout the room, including the computer screen, and reducing heat gain.

It is recommended that to help prevent eyestrain, a VDT user should take “microbreaks” where he/she is to look 20 feet away for 20 seconds (the 20/20 rule) to exercise the eyes. MechoShades are visually transparent, so while the shades are down to prevent glare and heat gain, the user can focus their eyes through the shades to a view to the outside.

Studies point to indoor chemical contaminants (VOC's) and biological contaminants as primary causes of Sick Building Syndrome. ThermoVeil and EuroVeil roller shade fabrics are anti-microbial, thus they do not support the organisms that promote SBS, such as staph and mildew. And, in testing by independent labs, the material is flame retardant and less toxic than burning wood.

Studies show that natural daylight is considerably more beneficial, biologically and mentally, than artificial light. The health benefits of natural light/windows in hospital patient recovery rooms have been a given fact for half a century. Recently, higher standard test scores have been documented in daylit schools. MechoShades allow natural daylight into a room while providing a significant reduction in solar heat gain and providing protection from the radiant component of sunshine.

MechoShades were used as skylights for the Herman Miller SQA building in Holland, MI. The skylights were made to supplement the heating and cooling system and provide natural daylighting as well as a view to the outdoors. Chris Hays, design partner at McDonough + Partners, the architect for Herman Miller, states in the April ‘97 issue of Interiors & Sources, “we have found that if a building incorporates nature, productivity increases and absenteeism decreases.” According to the mcdonough.com web site, “Because this building was also designed with the feelings of the workers being utmost importance, Worker effectiveness rose from 98.54% to 99.53% and worker quality rose from 98.97% to 99.23%…….” . A healthy, happy workforce is a productive workforce.

For more information on MechoShade Systems and how they can provide a healthy, ergonomically functional workplace, call 718-729-2020 or visit our website at www.mechoshade.com to locate the sales rep nearest to you.

MechoShade Systems, Inc. • 42-03 35th Street • Long Island City, NY 11101