Workplace flexibility boosts employee health: study

A new study indicates workplace flexibility delivers improvements in employee health and can boost morale, management-issues reports.

The University of Minnesota study compared white-collar firms that introduced programs that allowed staff to work where they wanted with organisations that maintained inflexible arrangements.

The results suggested staff at flexible, results-driven organisations enjoyed a number of benefits including more sleep on nights before work and were more likely to see a doctor when sick.

It's claimed these workers also had higher energy levels and recorded a decrease in emotional exhaustion and psychological distress.

The study reflects the finding of previous research that indicates flexible work arrangements can reduce sick leave and work-related impairment.