09 Apr Office Safety – Preventing Common Office Hazards

Office Safety – Preventing Common Office Hazards

Office safety depends on recognizing and controlling everyday hazards. Although offices are generally considered low-hazard workplaces, poor housekeeping, unsafe storage, electrical hazards, improper lifting, and inadequate emergency preparedness can result in serious injuries.

Housekeeping and Walking Surfaces

Good housekeeping is one of the most effective ways to prevent office injuries.

• Keep aisles, walkways, stairs, and exits clear of boxes, cords, equipment, and other obstructions.
• Clean up spills promptly and warn others of wet or slippery surfaces until the hazard is corrected.
• Keep electrical, computer, and telephone cords out of walking areas.
• Clean and organize work areas regularly.
• Walk—do not run—in office areas.
• Use handrails when using stairs.
• Wear footwear appropriate for the walking surfaces and conditions.
• Report damaged flooring, loose carpeting, inadequate lighting, or other hazards promptly.

Office Furniture and Storage

Improperly stored materials and unsecured furniture can create struck-by, caught-between, and falling-object hazards.

• Secure tall or unstable shelving, cabinets, and other furniture when necessary to prevent tipping.
• Keep file cabinet and desk drawers closed when not in use.
• Avoid opening multiple file cabinet drawers at the same time.
• Store heavier materials on lower shelves and lighter materials above.
• Do not overload shelves, cabinets, or storage areas.
• Avoid storing heavy or unsecured objects where they could fall onto employees.
• Use an approved step stool or ladder when reaching elevated storage areas.
• Never stand on chairs, desks, boxes, or other makeshift objects to reach overhead items.

Ergonomics and Material Handling

Office work can involve prolonged sitting, repetitive movements, lifting, reaching, and other activities that may contribute to musculoskeletal discomfort or injury.

• Arrange your workstation to maintain comfortable, neutral working postures.
• Adjust your chair, monitor, keyboard, and mouse to fit your work activities.
• Change positions periodically and take appropriate movement breaks.
• Use proper lifting techniques when handling boxes, files, paper, or equipment.
• Keep loads close to your body and avoid twisting while lifting.
• Get assistance or use a cart for heavy, bulky, or awkward materials.
• Report persistent discomfort so the workstation or task can be evaluated.

Electrical Safety

Use office electrical equipment according to manufacturer instructions and workplace requirements.

• Inspect electrical cords and plugs for visible damage before use.
• Remove damaged electrical equipment from service and report it.
• Do not overload electrical outlets or power strips.
• Never connect power strips or extension cords together in a “daisy chain.”
• Do not use extension cords as a substitute for permanent wiring.
• Keep liquids away from electrical equipment.
• Keep cords out of walkways and protect them from damage.
• Do not attempt electrical repairs unless trained and authorized.

Emergency Preparedness

Every office employee should know what to do during an emergency.

• Know the building’s emergency procedures.
• Know evacuation routes, emergency exits, and designated assembly areas.
• Keep exits, aisles, and access to emergency equipment unobstructed.
• Know how to report a fire, medical emergency, or other emergency.
• Know the locations of first-aid supplies, AEDs, fire extinguishers, and other emergency equipment provided at the workplace.
• Use a fire extinguisher only if you have been trained, conditions allow its safe use, and workplace procedures authorize you to do so.
• Participate in required emergency drills and training.

Report Office Hazards

Employees should report unsafe conditions to their supervisor or other designated person as soon as they are identified. Hazards should be corrected promptly rather than allowing an unsafe condition to become part of the normal workplace environment.

Remember

A familiar environment is not automatically a safe environment. Good housekeeping, safe storage, proper ergonomics, electrical safety, and emergency preparedness all contribute to preventing office injuries.