Citation

Venugopal V, Roberts AC, Kwok KW, Christopoulos GI, Soh CK. Ergonomics 2020; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2020, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/00140139.2020.1780306

PMID

32515298

Abstract

Underground workplaces (UWS) are increasingly being recognized as a sustainable solution to concerns regarding lack of space facing megacities. UWS can multiply available space by reducing urban sprawl thereby improving quality of life in cities. However, developing workplaces that respond to the needs and preferences of occupants will be a crucial factor in determining the success of this concept. We examine the experiences of existing full-time employees of a large underground facility in North America and analyse how these are related to company policies and other organizational factors. From in-depth interviews of 73 participants, three predominant themes emerged from the analyses: environmental effects (e.g. lack of sunlight), design (e.g. the unique working environment) & organizational factors and social dynamics (e.g. policies regarding breaks). We discuss these themes in relation with interventions that may improve employee comfort and retention and suggest that many factors are within organisational control.

Practitioner Summary: Underground workplaces are a sustainable solution to lack of urban space. However, developing effective workplaces is crucial to their success. We examine the experiences of existing employees of an underground facility in North America. We suggest that most negative attitudes towards underground spaces can be mitigated through simple organizational interventions.

Language: en

Keywords

land use; interviews; breakrooms; sustainable development; underground; workplace study