Govt Employees Urge WFH and Staggered Hours Amid Worsening Air Quality

New Delhi: Amid the alarming decline in Delhi's air quality, the Central Secretariat Service (CSS) officers' body on Monday called for work-from-home options, staggered working hours, and the installation of air purifiers in all office buildings to reduce the health risks posed by the severe pollution.In a letter to the Secretary of the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), the association said that poor air quality has also had a noticeable effect on workplace productivity with employees experiencing symptoms such as respiratory issues, eye irritation, fatigue and general discomfort."It has become imperative to take urgent measures to ensure the well-being of all, particularly those engaged in government services," said the letter by the CSS Forum.The letter noted that prolonged exposure to hazardous air quality is causing a rise in respiratory problems and other health issues among employees and their families."The discomfort caused by poor air quality is affecting the efficiency and output of the workforce," the CSS Forum said.The association highlighted that the alarming decline in air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) consistently remaining at hazardous levels, presents serious health risks, particularly for those with pre-existing conditions, the elderly, and children.It has significantly impacted the day-to-day lives of residents and employees working in the capital, said the letter written by Ashutosh Misra, the General Secretary of the CSS Forum.It suggested workplace adjustments like implementing work-from-home policies or staggered office timings till the situation eases out.The CSS officers association also sought provisions of air purifiers in all central government office buildings to improve indoor air quality."Ensure that employees are provided with N95 masks and other necessary protective equipment," Misra said.The CSS Forum is an association of CSS officers who form the backbone of the central secretariat working.He also asked the DoPT Secretary to issue comprehensive guidelines for all central government offices on measures to combat air pollution and safeguard employees' health.The association also suggested carpooling, use of public transport and adopt energy efficient office operations.People complained of itchy and watery eyes as a dense layer of smog continued to envelop the national capital. Delhi's AQI was recorded at 484, the worst this season, at 8 am on Monday. The AQI worsened further to 491 at 2 pm, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).The Centre's air quality panel had on Sunday also suggested work-from-home options for central government employees.(with agency inputs)

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Govt Employees Urge WFH and Staggered Hours Amid Worsening Air Quality

Amid Delhi's worsening air quality, the CSS officers' body called for WFH, staggered hours, and air purifiers in offices to reduce health risks from severe air.

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