A new study has shown that excessive noise and lack of privacy, as well as constant distraction in open plan offices can increase the stress levels of workers.

The study involving 20,000 British professionals revealed that 56 percent of the respondents complained of lack of privacy, 55 percent about poor temperature and 60 percent about lack of quiet space.

Moreover, 20 percent drop in productivity was also blamed on poorly planned office space. One in three was concerned about lack of daylight and noise levels, reports dailymail.co.uk.

Britons have some of the longest working hours in Europe, with one in five spending more than 45 hours a week in the office.

The study was led by researchers from University College London and environment consultants BRE.