HAYFEVER SEASON CAUSES COSTS TO THE WORKPLACE

Sniffy noses, bloodshot eyes, itchy skin and sneezing are all clear signs that the hay fever season is in full swing, and with an estimated 21 million allergy sufferers in the UK the warm weather can wreak havoc on workplace productivity. Sick days and lost productivity resulting from hay fever is estimated to cost UK businesses up to £7billion. Those who do manage to make it to work often find that their work quality suffers and they feel miserable stuffed up and congested as they struggle to get through the day. Here are some top tips from executive careers site TheLadders.co.uk to ensure that the pollen doesn't pollute your workplace. Prevention is key - It's important to get into a routine of monitoring pollen counts and keeping your home dust and pollen free - through frequent vacuuming and washing before bedtime to remove the pollen from the day and in the morning before you get dressed, you can reduce exposure to your allergens. This means a reduced frequency and intensity of hay fever symptoms and a better day at work. At work, take a few minutes to wipe down the area around your desk and remove your coat to somewhere else in the office before you sit down. It may sound unnecessary but pollen gathers on clothes, hair and exposed areas of skin on your way to work and can then irritate you all day. Be prepared – ensure you keep some hay fever medicine handy at work. Sometimes even popping out at lunchtime can expose you to a high level of pollen. Make sure you are stocked up on the decongestants, antihistamines, anti-inflammatory drugs or other hay fever medication you require for your symptoms and keep a supply in your handbag or briefcase. Most importantly make sure you take non-drowsy medicine – you don't want to be caught snoozing in an important business meeting. Alternative work options – If hay fever symptoms keep you away from the office, don't call in sick, ask to work from home. Employers may be sympathetic but if your boss doesn't suffer, he or she won't understand. Explaining your symptoms and offering to work from home will be appreciated by your boss and colleagues. Hay Fever isn't for life - But it will be around for most of the summer. If you are plagued by the symptoms each year and it does significantly affect your work and life, then plan ahead and consult a specialist so that this time next year you are working to your optimum best.