Creating a Safe Office Environment

Don't make the mistake of thinking safety just applies to industrial facilities. Small employers or office workers are just as susceptible to workplace injuries as large /industrial facilities. An employer's first step should be creating a safe office environment.

Fall Prevention

* Floors should be well maintained with non-slip surfacing. Loose or broken tiles and frayed carpeting should be repaired or replaced immediately. Rug edges should adhere to floor or not be used at all.

* Stairs should be free of chips and cracks. Stairwells should be properly illuminated. Handrails should be provided and securely fastened.

* Office furniture should be arranged to provide for wide aisles. Position desks and file cabinets so their drawers do not open into a doorway. Keep office machinery near electrical outlets to eliminate the use of extension cords, especially those crossing aisles.

* Storage space should be adequate to avoid stockpiling supplies in office work areas.

* File cabinets or bookcases taller than 64 inches should be anchored to the wall or floor to prevent tipping over. File drawers should operate easily.

* Position convex mirrors at aisle intersections to avoid collisions.

* Office machines should be equipped with a good ground wire.

* Extension cords should be maintained in good working order and should not be used as a permanent power supply.

* Do not block electrical panel doors and keep them closed to prevent a flashover should an electrical malfunction occur.

* Install and maintain smoke detectors and fire alarms.

* If smoking is allowed, smoking areas should be properly designated away from regular work areas. Appropriate ash trays should be provided and emptied frequently.

* The proper type and number of fire extinguishers should be available and employees should be trained to use them.

* Heating elements including coffee makers should be properly wired, safely placed and regularly maintained.

* Work stations should be placed at 90 degrees from light sources, including all windows, to reduce eye fatigue from glare.

* Chairs with armrests should be adjusted with seat height from 16 to 20.5 inches from the floor and able to tilt 0 to 10 degrees. The backrest should be adjustable with lumbar support.

* Worktables should never be less than 24 inches from the floor. The work surface should be large enough to permit components to be moved forward and back, while allowing room for a wrist rest and working documents.

* Monitors should be at least 20-30 inches from the operator's eyes with the top of the monitor not higher than eye level.

* Utilize wrist rests or wrist supports to alleviate muscle fatigue and decrease wrist extension.

* Fixtures and furniture should be free of splinters or sharp edges.

* Air returns or registers should not be blocked by furniture or equipment.

After an employer creates a safe environment for employees, your office will not necessarily be free of accidents. It is important to inform your employee on how to work safely within this environment.