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A New Approach to Health: The Wellness Container Initiative by Asanuma Corporation

Asanuma Corporation, based in Naniwa, Osaka, has taken a significant step towards enhancing the health and well-being of its employees working at construction sites. They have begun applying the innovative "Wellness Container," which allows for the easy integration of natural materials into the interiors of temporary container houses commonly used at construction sites. This unique initiative aims to transform the typically sterile environment of construction offices into warm and inviting spaces that promote mental and physical wellness.

Understanding the Wellness Container

The concept of the Wellness Container revolves around revitalizing the interior of conventional container houses by incorporating natural elements and sounds. This transformation is undertaken through workshops involving onsite employees, with participation from project stakeholders and design offices encouraged to shape the final aesthetic according to individual preferences and needs.

Key Features of the Wellness Container

• - Utilization of Natural Materials: The project features materials such as soil wall panels made from construction by-products and Yoshino cedar from the company’s founding region, Nara. Additional ambiance is created by playing recorded high-resolution natural sounds gathered from local forests.
• - Cost-Effective by Reusing Existing Fixtures: By adapting existing desks and counters to fit the natural materials seamlessly, Asanuma Corporation has managed to suppress costs and reduce construction time.
• - Ease of Installation and Removal: The soil wall panels and Yoshino cedar cladding are designed for easy detachment via magnetic fittings, allowing for quick installation and reusability. The project aligns well with Asanuma's ongoing GOOD CYCLE PROJECT, which aims to foster a circular economy in construction.
• - Quick Construction Time: Workshops can complete the installations within a single day, ensuring swift transitions to the new, healthier workspaces.

The Purpose Behind Wellness Container

Given that construction offices are typically temporary installations, integrating the Wellness Container concept serves several purposes:

• - Enhancing Employee Health: Previous renovations at the company’s Nagoya branch, where natural materials permeated the workspace, resulted in measurable health benefits for employees. This approach is anticipated to similarly uplift the well-being of on-site workers through improved workspace environments.
• - Promoting the GOOD CYCLE PROJECT: By converting these construction sites into showcases for sustainable practices, Asanuma aims to enhance awareness of its initiatives among clients and partners, motivating a broader cultural shift toward sustainable building practices.
• - Fostering Attachment and Team Spirit: Workshops involving employees who will utilize the space are believed to cultivate a deeper connection to their environments—promoting teamwork and a collective commitment to excellence in craftsmanship.

Workshop Dynamics and Results

The core element of the Wellness Container initiative is the workshops that engage the actual employees using the spaces. They have the hands-on opportunity to co-create their work environment, nurtured by the expectation that such involvement will deepen their emotional investment in the workspace and enhance collaboration. This aspect is crucial for maintaining high quality in construction outputs, particularly in a setting where teamwork is essential.

Detailed Elements of the Wellness Container

1. Soil Wall Panels: Utilizing the excess soil generated from excavation works, these panels not only minimize waste but also stabilize humidity in the workspace, contributing to a healthier atmosphere.
2. Yoshino Cedar Integrations: With accommodations made from locally sourced cedar wood, the soothing aroma and visual appeal of the wood create a calming workplace, paving the way for greater productivity and relaxation among employees.
3. High-Resolution Natural Sound Reproduction: By employing advanced sound systems to deliver ambient sounds of nature, the workspaces emulate a peaceful outdoor environment, significantly aiding in stress relief and recovery.

Conclusion

Asanuma Corporation’s commitment to the WELLNESS CONTAINER project highlights its innovative approach to improving work conditions in construction settings. It emphasizes the importance of mental and physical health for employees and showcases how industrial practices can align with environmental sustainability. With over 130 years of history, Asanuma continues to reshape the future of construction while remaining dedicated to supporting the well-being of its workforce.