Like any other workplace, proper precautions and ongoing safety inspections in offices are an excellent way to protect employees and visitors. Eliminating or mitigating most office safety hazards is easy by the correct design for jobs and workplaces and understanding the differences among people and tasks. Make sure that there is adequate temperature control, humidity control and exhaust systems to keep a comfortable environment.
The Need for an Office Safety Plan
Companies with several worker’s filing compensation claim or claims from visitors for accidents are likely facing increases in their monthly premiums for these insurances. When management and staff work together the workplace is safer for workers and visitors. Safety plans include items such as:
Who is Responsible? Everyone is!
Management offers training for all employees in:
- Emergency procedures
- Electrical Safety
- Office ergonomics
- Insure all office equipment is in good and safe working condition
- Make sure that proper storage for office supplies has easy access and adequate space
Office Staff Responsibilities
- Tell management about any safety problems at once.
- Report equipment that needs repair – never attempt the repair on your own.
- Keep a well maintained office environment
Be On the Lookout (BOLO)
Electrical Safety
Electrical safety is a major issue in office space. Improperly maintained or used electrical equipment is often a fire hazard or tripping hazard. Common issues in offices include:
- Use of extension cords that are a tripping hazard
- No part of an extension cord has frays, cuts, kinks or knots
- Make sure cords are not running through doorways so that closing doors frays the wires
Buy the quietest equipment possible.
Maintain it so that it remains quiet
Place loud equipment as far from conversation areas as possible.
Isolate noise sources. Use barriers, buffers or acoustically treated material.
Housekeeping
Poorly performed housekeeping is often the cause of fires, employee injuries, and injuries to guests. Aisles within the office cannot have obstructions. When not in use all drawers are kept closes. Damaged furniture, especially chairs and drawers that cannot close need fast attention.
Management encourages employees to report all unsafe conditions and when a report comes, takes prompt action to fix the problem.
