A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY ON HOW ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS INFLUENCE HUMAN WELL-BEING AT WORKPLACE IN AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

Adrian DĂLĂLĂU-RUS, Liviu MOLDOVAN

Abstract


The workplace environment, shaped by physical factors like air quality, thermal comfort and acoustics, has a direct impact on workers’ well-being, satisfaction, and productivity. The objective of this study is to investigate the correlation between indoor environmental quality and employee well-being within Hirschmann Automotive, an automotive manufacturing facility located in Mures County. The research methodology involved designing a questionnaire on workers’ perceptions of their environment, comfort and performance, followed by the analysis of responses from 50 employees working in shifts under strict clothing requirements in a controlled production area. The results were analyzed to identify key trends and improvement suggestions. Environmental parameters monitored included indoor environmental quality, thermal comfort, airflow, differential pressure and carbon dioxide levels. Despite the technically regulated environment, findings reveal a notable paradox: employees reported low performance, elevated stress levels, and a greater need for breaks—particularly during high-temperature periods. A significant proportion of respondents identified poor air quality as a key factor impairing concentration and productivity, often resorting to improvised solutions such as opening doors to improve comfort. These results highlight the critical importance of maintaining optimal indoor environmental conditions in industrial settings and provide actionable recommendations for improving occupational health, workplace design, and employee performance.

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