How Office Screens Help Reduce the Spread of Illnesses and Super Flu

In today’s workplaces, employee health is more important than ever. Open-plan offices encourage collaboration, but they can also make it easier for illnesses, like the current “super flu”, to spread rapidly. NHS England reported that in the week leading up to Sunday, hospitals treated an average of 2,660 flu patients each day – enough to fill the equivalent of three hospitals. Officials warned that cases have been steadily increasing, with numbers possibly reaching over 5,000 by the weekend.

One simple yet effective solution many organisations are adopting to prevent the spread of illnesses is the use of office screens. These screens play a key role in creating healthier, safer work environments, but how do they work?

A Physical Barrier Against Germs

Office screens act as a physical barrier that helps block respiratory droplets released when people talk, cough, or sneeze. Since many viruses spread through airborne particles, even a partial barrier can significantly reduce the distance those droplets travel. By separating workstations with edge mount screens or even freestanding acrylic screens lower the chance of direct transmission between employees.

Reducing Cross-Contamination in Shared Spaces

In busy offices, employees frequently move, interact, and share equipment. Office screens help limit direct face-to-face exposure, especially in desk clusters or hot-desking environments. This added separation reduces the likelihood of cross-contamination and helps contain potential outbreaks before they spread widely.

Supporting Healthier Workplace Habits

When employees feel protected, they are more likely to remain mindful of hygiene and personal space. Office screens subtly encourage social distancing without disrupting workflow or communication. They also make it easier to define individual work areas, which can help reduce the sharing of surfaces that may carry germs.

Complementing Ventilation and Cleaning Measures

While proper ventilation and regular cleaning are essential, office screens enhance these measures rather than replace them. Screens help control airflow direction, reducing the direct transfer of airborne particles between workers. They are also easy to clean and disinfect, making them a practical addition to daily hygiene routines.

Minimising Sick Days and Improving Productivity

Fewer illnesses mean fewer sick days. By reducing the spread of flu and other contagious illnesses, office screens help maintain a healthier workforce. Healthy employees are more productive, more engaged, and less likely to experience disruptions caused by widespread absenteeism. See our blog post on how to reduce staff sick days here.

A Simple Step Toward a Healthier Office

Office screens offer a cost-effective and unobtrusive way to improve workplace health. When combined with good hygiene practices, ventilation, and flexible sick-leave policies, they can play a vital role in preventing the spread of illnesses and protecting employees year-round.

Creating a healthier office doesn’t always require major changes. Sometimes, a simple barrier can make a significant difference.

Browse our range of perspex and acrylic screens here, and if you have any questions about our products, our friendly advisors will be here to help you. You can chat with a BPF Online product advisor through our website, or call us on 01295 678614.