Because office areas are not the most hazardous parts of most industrial workplaces, they may not be a safety priority for you and safety probably isn’t an issue much on the minds of office workers, either. As a result, minor hazards go undetected, and those small problems can become costly injuries.
What are the major hazards for office workers?
Falls account for the highest number of disabling injuries and the highest percentage of lost workdays due to such injuries.
People fall while getting into and up from chairs, leaning back and tilting chairs, standing on chairs, and putting their feet up on the desk.
Other office safety hazards include:
- Poor housekeeping
- Wet surfaces
- Improperly placed cords
- Obstructed walkways
- Open file drawers
- Stairs
- Ergonomic risks (e.g., head and neck strains from improper desk/computer setup, stiffness from too much sitting, discomfort from cradling the phone between head and shoulder)
- Overexertion from lifting
- Poor lighting
- Struck by injuries (from doors, desks, carts, etc.)
- Shocks from faulty electrical equipment
- Poor air quality and bad ventilation
- Sedentary lifestyle, which can lead to health problems