Office Dangers

Office Dangers

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A job where most of the work tasks are completed whist sitting in a chair in an office would seem less fraught with danger. However, a surprising number of hazards can be present in an office.

The most common source of injury in an office are falls, injuries caused by strike of an

object and ergonomic injuries. Some simple changes to the work space can be effective

in eliminating hazards and reducing the number of injuries.

Administrative reviews, such as regular walk throughs and the establishment of a formal

reporting system can help protect your team in the office environment.

Stay Clutter Free

Take a page out of Marie Knodo’s book “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying” and

remove any clutter from the office. These can create a trip hazard if left in a walkway

or can fall if stacked in a pile. Clutter can also cause electrical hazards if items are

piled near outlets and cords. Not to mention it also creates a more pleasing work

environment.

Step On Up

We have done it before, and we all know it is dangerous. Standing on

chairs, especially rolling office chairs are significant hazards. No one wants to be

next YouTube star from falling off a chair. Get a step ladder if you need to reach

something at elevated height.

Storage Wars

Proper storage of heavy items can help reduce the number of office injuries. Large stacks of materials and heavy equipment can cause major injuries if they are knocked over. Store heavy objects close to the floor and ensure the load capacity of shelves or storage units is not exceeded. Consider the amount of paper you store in the office.

Our team have had to prop floors up from below before allowing people into a building due to weight of paper stored on a floor above. Another great reason to become paperless!

Keep Your Feet On The Floor

Do your feet touch the floor while seated at your desk? Often workers have to jack their chairs up to reach their keyboard and mouse as their desk is too high for them.

If feet are not on the floor, their posture is incorrect and they will receive pain and discomfort. Ensure staff ergonomics are correct.

See our free poster for correct ergonomic posture.

Let Someone Else Hold It

Neck strain is a common complaint in an office, an easy way to rid this is by

providing document holders. By having documents upright near the computer

screen the worker is eliminating excessive motion and preventing

muscle imbalances. The holders are great for doing those eye exercises that

your yoga teacher encourages!

Get a Grip

Carpet and other skid resistant surfaces can serve to reduce slips and falls. Concrete and tiles can become slippery (particularly when wet) placing carpet or mats down can be especially helpful at entrance ways, where people are likely to be coming in with wet

footwear.

Eek a Mouse!

Most workstations include a mouse and keyboard. By keeping these

two aligned and in close proximity to each other you reduce strain on the

neck and shoulders. Good posture and neck / arm exercises is also encouraged.

Get Off That Chair!

The best thing for any office worker is to get up and move in regular intervals.

Go for a walk around the block, stretch out those arm and get that blood

flowing. Your body will thank you for it!