Safety Issues for Office Workers

Precautions by office workers should be made to ensure workplace safety.

Safety issues for office workers should be approached with common sense and a thorough knowledge of the office floor plan and environment. Safety issues range from the furniture ergonomics to employee behavior.

Equipment

Many office accidents occur due to improper use of office furniture, such as using a chair or desk in lieu of a ladder to reach an object, according to anonymousemployee.com.

Cabinets

Office safety includes the appropriate placement of cabinets and bookshelves to avoid having office workers strike sharp edges.

Body Mechanics

Office workers often injure themselves picking up heavy boxes. Workers should use their knees and use a back brace when lifting.

Ergonomics

An appropriate chair with good lumbar support, proper placement of the desk computer and a desk at the correct level will minimize discomfort and repetitive stress injuries.

Office Floor Plan

Often office workers are unaware of a direct route to emergency exits or that such exits may be blocked. A quick visual check can ensure one's safety.

Workplace Violence

Violent behavior in the office is an increasing problem as workplace and personal lives often merge. Supervisors should be trained to recognize the signs of unusual behavior.

References

• Office safety tips
• Workplace safety issues
• More safety details

Resources

• Ergonomic information
• Preventing workplace violence