Office settings are typically safe work environments. However, when we take shortcuts, allow poor housekeeping or don’t pay attention to the task at hand injuries can happen. 

Avoid Slips, Trips, and Falls:

  • Cellphone Use: Don't walk and text while on your cell phone.  
  • Stairs: Use handrails on stairs. Never place or store items on stairs.
  • Walking Surfaces: Use caution when walking on wet floors or uneven surfaces.
  • Ladders: Never stand on a table, desk, boxes, or a chair when reaching for items. Use a stepstool or stepladder
  • Routing Cords: Avoid running electrical cords under carpet or through windows and doorways. Also, don’t fasten them with unapproved devices, such as staples. Extension cords should never be used as permanent wiring. Wires and cords should be placed away from walkways. 

 

Lighting: Lighting should be appropriate for the task being performed. 

Footcandle Table-Pic

 

Bookcases and Tall Cabinets: Anchor shelving, cabinets or other top heavy equipment to the wall to prevent tipping

 

Safe Guidelines for the Use of Appliances:

  • Ground Prong: Do not cut or remove the third prong (ground prong) from a power cord.  
  • Unplugging: Do not unplug appliances by pulling on the power cord.
  • Electrical Outlets: Plugging too many appliances or equipment in one power socket and improper use of extension cords can cause sockets to overheat
  • Space Heaters: Must be approved by Facilities before use. Employee's should use caution, not positioning close to combustibles and always turning off when leaving the space. 
  • Toasters, Toaster Ovens and Microwave Ovens: May not be used in a private office or workstation (cubicle).  Do not leave unattended while in use, turning to the "off" position before leaving the appliance.

 

Ergonomics: Visit the County Ergonomics webpage for information on safe work practices, training, office adjustments, and requesting an ergo evaluation.  

 

Office Emergency Procedures:

  • It is essential that all office corridors and walkways are kept clear and access to fire escapes is not restricted because blockages could delay the evacuation of a building. 
  • Know and understand what to do in the event of a fire, storm, violent intruder, medical problem or other emergency.

 

Resources and References