There’ll be no sleep ‘til bedtime

I walk to and from the office each day. They provide an amazing time to contemplate the highs and lows of the working day.

I know I could do that on the train or the bus, but I like the walk better (plus I don’t have to endure the sound of leaky MP3 players or iPods) and I get some much needed exercise.

Often I vary my route, particularly if my mind is racing. Keeping track of all that BIBA House staff are involved in generally guarantees churning thoughts.

This week is no exception, to give just a few examples, we have commission disclosure and discussions with the regulator and the ABI about a potential market solution, our response to DP08/2, the developing EU environmental liability directive, treating customers fairly, the Pitt report, work on the rights of older people, broker training and compliance forums, professional indemnity initiatives, a meeting with the National Fraud Strategic Authority, and the impending launch of our guide to members about protecting their businesses from financial crime.

“I read in the FT about Procter & Gamble introducing staff sleep pods in their Geneva offices. That would never happen on my watch.

The sheer range of activities is exhausting so it was with interest that I read in the FT about Procter & Gamble introducing staff sleep pods in their Geneva offices. That would never happen on my watch, I chuckled to myself. Then, lo and behold, I’m informed that Wednesday was national siesta day. Hmm, this needed investigating to ensure that it wasn’t a prank being played on me by a BIBA staff member.

Apparently, it’s true and British businesses are being encouraged to let their staff have a snooze during the day. Just a 10-20 minute nap can improve memory, productivity and concentration as well as cut the risk of heart disease, campaigners argue. Staff should be able to nap during their lunch break free from the fear that their co-workers think they’re lazy or have imbibed a liquid lunch, we’re told.

As I walked home that night I still couldn’t see how we could accommodate naps safely at the office. Where would we fit the sleep pods? What about timing? Then there’s the privacy aspects, would we have to segregate male and female staff? What if, heaven forbid, a member of staff goes to sleep and doesn’t wake up again, are we liable?

These concerns don’t seem to affect rail and bus commuters, many of whom seem to have napping down to a fine art. I suspect, I may soon be called upon to launch a feasibility study into this matter, but first I might just curl up under my desk and get in a few zzzzs – all in the interests of research, mind you!