It's fairly obvious that safety and health hazards can exist on worksites filled with heavy machinery and equipment, where employees often are required to engage in strenuous manual labor.
A job where most of the work tasks are completed while sitting in a chair in a climate-controlled office building would seem less fraught with danger. However, a surprising number of hazards can be present in an office setting.
Here are 25 steps you can take to reduce the risk of injury among your office staff.
Falls
Slips, trips and falls, the most common type of office injury. Several hazards contribute to these injuries, although most can be significantly reduced, often by raising awareness among employees.
1. Stay clutter-free
2. Standing on chairs
3. Maintain a clear line of vision
4. Carpeting and other skid-resistant surfaces can serve to reduce falls.
Take a look at our Slips, Trips and Falls poster
Struck/caught by an object
5. Shut the drawer
6. Safe stacking
Ergonomics injuries
Office workers spend the bulk of their day seated at a desk and working on a computer, they are prone to strains and other injuries related to posture and repetitive movement. Ergonomics hazards can be difficult to detect.
7. Provide adjustable equipment
8. Train workers on how to use equipment
9. Keep your feet on the floor
10. Provide document holders
11. Correct mouse placement
Vision problems
12. Dim the lights and use task lamps
13. Correctly position monitors
14. Minimize screen glare
15. Wear the right glasses
16. Increase font size on computer
17. Take a break
Fire Safety
18. Maintain cords in good repair
19. Inspect space heaters
20. Never block fire sprinklers
21. Do not block escape routes or prop open fire doors
Take a look at our guide on How to use a Fire Extinguisher
Administrative controls
22. Conduct walk-throughs
23. Monitor signs of musculoskeletal disorders
24. Talk to employees about their concerns
25. Establish employee reporting systems
For more resources and information visit our Tips & Tricks page
