07 Jun Office Safety Practices – Preventing Everyday Injuries

Office Safety Practices – Preventing Everyday Injuries

Office safety practices are important because even routine office activities can result in injuries when hazards are overlooked. Slips and trips, poor housekeeping, improper lifting, awkward postures, electrical cords, and office equipment can all cause preventable injuries.

Following a few basic safety practices can make the office safer for everyone.

Safe Walking and Housekeeping

• Pay attention while walking. Avoid reading documents or looking at your phone while moving through the office.
• Walk—never run—in office areas, hallways, or on stairs.
• Keep aisles, walkways, stairs, and emergency exit routes clear at all times.
• Never store boxes, supplies, equipment, or other materials where they obstruct an aisle or exit.
• Clean up spills promptly and report damaged flooring or other walking-surface hazards.
• Wear footwear appropriate for the workplace. Do not walk barefoot or in stocking feet.
• Keep electrical and communication cords out of walking areas whenever possible.

File Cabinets and Storage

Open drawers and improperly stored materials can create trip, struck-by, and tip-over hazards.

• Never leave file cabinet or desk drawers open and unattended.
• Close drawers immediately after retrieving or filing materials.
• Open only one file cabinet drawer at a time.
• Store heavier materials in lower drawers and on lower shelves.
• Do not overload filing cabinets or shelving.
• Keep frequently used materials within comfortable reach.
• Use an approved step stool or ladder for materials stored overhead. Never stand on chairs, desks, or boxes.

Lifting and Carrying

Do not overload yourself simply to avoid making another trip.

• Evaluate the weight and size of files, boxes, or supplies before lifting.
• Keep the load close to your body.
• Avoid carrying loads that obstruct your vision.
• Use a cart or other appropriate equipment for heavy or bulky materials.
• Ask for assistance when a load cannot be handled comfortably.
• Make multiple trips rather than carrying too much at once.

Ergonomic Work Practices

Repeated bending, twisting, reaching, and prolonged awkward postures can contribute to muscle strains and other musculoskeletal problems.

• Avoid excessive bending at the waist when accessing low files or storage areas.
• Bend your knees and position yourself close to the item.
• Avoid twisting your back while reaching for files or supplies.
• Move your feet and turn your entire body instead of twisting at the waist.
• Arrange frequently used materials within easy reach.
• Adjust your workstation to maintain comfortable, neutral working postures.
• Change positions periodically throughout the workday.

Electrical Cords and Equipment

• Avoid routing extension cords across floors or walkways.
• Do not use extension cords as a substitute for permanent wiring.
• Do not overload outlets or power strips.
• Inspect electrical equipment and cords for obvious damage before use.
• Report damaged electrical equipment and remove it from service as appropriate.
• Keep liquids away from electrical equipment.

Office Machines

Automatic staplers, shredders, paper cutters, and other office machines can cause serious hand and finger injuries.

• Keep fingers away from operating and pinch-point areas.
• Never bypass guards or safety devices.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when clearing jams.
• Disconnect equipment from its energy source when required before cleaning, servicing, or clearing a jam.
• Do not attempt repairs unless you are trained and authorized.

Remember

Office safety practices do not require much extra time. Close the drawer, clear the walkway, use the cart, move closer instead of reaching, and stop before correcting a jammed machine.

A few seconds spent working safely can prevent an injury that affects you for days, weeks, or longer.