Office Workplace Safety

An office can have safety hazards.

An office seems like a relatively safe place to work when compared to factories, construction sites and other places with obvious hazards. You can still get hurt in a seemingly safe workplace if you are careless or don't take certain precautions. With a little care you can keep the office safe and protect yourself and your coworkers from harm.

Falls

James Madison University states office workers are twice as likely to be injured in falls as workers in other environments. Prevent this by keeping boxes and other items out of walkways. Don't even put out temporary blockages. Someone can easily trip and be injured by something that is only sitting in her path for a few minutes. Don't run phone cords, extension cords, electrical wires or communication lines where people must step over them. The city of Honolulu recommends watching out for wet floors and immediately cleaning all spills, as well as keeping all cabinet doors closed.

Climbing

Do not improvise when you need to reach something on a high shelf or other out-of-reach areas. James Madison University advises using a stepladder instead of climbing on a chair, desk, other furniture, boxes or other items not meant for that purpose. Not only could you fall, but you could also inadvertently pull heavy items down on top of you.

Balance

Top-heavy file cabinets pose an office workplace hazard. The city of Honolulu recommends storing heavier items in the bottom drawers. Otherwise the file cabinet could tip and fall on you if you open overloaded drawers. Close one drawer before opening another, and don't pull or struggle if it won't open; this could injure your back.

Fire

Watch out for fire hazards like overloaded outlets and extension cords or frayed wires. Immediately turn off a copier or other office equipment that starts smoking, sparking or emitting a burning smell, the city of Honolulu warns. Report malfunctioning electrical outlets, lights and other potential problems so they can be promptly prepared. Be aware of exit locations, and set up a meeting place if the office must be evacuated in case of fire.

Lifting

Lift heavy objects carefully, the U.S. Department of Commerce advises. Lift using your legs instead of your back. Squat close to the item to be lifted, grasp it firmly in your hands, and straighten your legs so their muscles do the work. Ask for help if something is too heavy or difficult to carry by yourself, and don't carry anything tall enough to block your vision.

Prevention

James Madison University advises many office workplace accidents can be prevented through awareness. Watch for hazards like overloaded extension cords, frayed carpets, items stored in walkways and other potentially dangerous conditions. Report them immediately to your supervisor.

References

• James Madison University: Safety in the Office
• City of Honolulu: Office Safety
• U. S. Department of Commerce: Workplace Safety