As air pollution levels soar in Indian cities, companies are taking proactive measures to safeguard their employees’ health and well-being. Major corporations, including Coca-Cola India, ITC, Infosys, KPMG, and Deloitte India, have implemented a range of strategies, such as flexible work policies and the installation of advanced air purification systems, according to a report by The Economic Times.
Delhi’s Air Pollution Crisis
Delhi, often labelled as one of the world’s most polluted cities, is facing a severe air quality crisis. On Monday, the city’s air pollution levels surpassed the hazardous 1,000-mark on the Air Quality Index (AQI), putting millions at risk. The primary culprits include vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, construction dust, and the seasonal practice of crop stubble burning in neighbouring states like Punjab and Haryana.
During winter, the situation deteriorates further. Low temperatures and stagnant wind conditions trap pollutants close to the ground, creating a blanket of toxic smog. This smog poses significant health risks, including respiratory ailments, cardiovascular diseases, and a rise in asthma cases, with children and the elderly being particularly vulnerable.
Despite mitigation efforts, such as the odd-even vehicle scheme, promotion of cleaner fuels, and restrictions on construction, Delhi’s air pollution remains a persistent challenge. Experts stress the need for stricter enforcement of regulations, better regional cooperation, and sustainable urban planning to address this environmental and public health emergency.
The Government’s Response
To combat the crisis, the Delhi government has enforced Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Measures include:
- Banning diesel vehicles.
- Halting non-essential truck movements.
- Suspending construction and demolition activities.
- Encouraging work-from-home for professionals.
While these steps aim to reduce pollutant levels, the private sector is also playing a crucial role in mitigating the impact on employees.
Flexible Work Policies
Companies are increasingly adopting flexible work arrangements during periods of extreme pollution. For instance:
- Coca-Cola India allows employees to work from the office, remotely, or from satellite offices in less polluted cities. Flexible working hours have also been introduced to reduce exposure during peak pollution hours.
- Colgate-Palmolive India has implemented a “work from anywhere” policy for all employees, ensuring they can avoid commuting in hazardous conditions.
- KPMG offers remote and hybrid work options, accommodating client commitments while prioritising employee safety.
- Infosys encourages work-from-home arrangements during severe smog events, ensuring uninterrupted productivity without compromising health.
These policies not only protect employees but also contribute to reducing traffic-related emissions, a significant source of urban pollution.
Investing in Cleaner Indoor Air
Beyond flexible work arrangements, many companies are focusing on creating healthier indoor environments. Investments in air purification systems, advanced filtration technology, and greenery are becoming the norm in corporate spaces.
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- Acer India has installed air purifiers across its offices and meeting rooms. Recognising the need for personal air quality control, the company has also gifted purifiers to its employees.
- KPMG has upgraded its air handling units with MERV 14 filters—a high-efficiency filtration system—and introduced indoor plants to naturally improve air quality.
- PepsiCo and Deloitte India have similarly installed advanced air purifiers and enhanced their office spaces with greenery to ensure a healthier workplace for their staff.
These efforts underline the growing recognition of air quality as a critical component of employee well-being and productivity.
The Bigger Picture
India’s battle against air pollution requires collective action from governments, businesses, and citizens. While companies are taking commendable steps to shield their employees from immediate harm, long-term solutions demand stricter enforcement of environmental policies and greater investments in renewable energy, sustainable transport, and afforestation.
Until systemic changes are implemented, flexible work policies and air purification measures will remain essential tools for coping with the seasonal air pollution crisis that plagues India’s cities. As these initiatives grow, they may also inspire other countries facing similar challenges to adopt innovative approaches to protect public health.
