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Hazardous Office Safety

Principal Author / Publisher:Safetyhow Admin
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Officer workers face many workplace hazards, just as many other workers do. Unhealthy office conditions and practices cause thousands of injuries and health problems each year. Hazardous office safety should be addressed on a regular basis to office employees, as well as included in new worker training. A written Office Safety Program is required by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), to cover all aspects of office safety.

Ergonomic Issues

Ergonomic hazards arise in many office settings.
Ergonomics involves making sure that the job, equipment, and workplace are designed to help prevent strain injuries, which can develop over time and can lead to long-term disability. Carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and back strain are some of the issues that office workers face. Some causes of ergonomic injuries are repetitive movement, poor body placement, and working in one position for long periods of time.

Air Quality and Ventilation

Air quality is an office hazard that is often neglected until an outbreak of office worker illnesses. A "sick office" affects productivity and increases costs associated with medical treatments and employee sick days. The Consumer Federation of America estimates a loss of $100 billion dollars each year due to sick building incidents. Symptoms of air contamination or ventilation problems include headache; fatigue; breathing problems; irritation to skin, eyes, nose, and throat; dizziness, and nausea. Workers should report any persistent or widely-spread symptoms to a supervisor.

Office Noise

Workers' hearing can be damaged by high levels of noise generated from office equipment. Copy machines, computer printers, and other equipment can generate a great deal of noise. Transcription machines and other earphone devices are another source of potential hearing damage. Monitoring noise levels and hazards, and taking steps to resolve any dangerous issues help prevent injuries to office workers.

Eye Strain

Eye strain is an office hazard that can be caused by two main issues--improper lighting and computer monitors. Safe and comfortable lighting and protection from sunlight through windows can greatly reduce eye strain. Computer monitor position and the use of glare screens are other ways to minimize eye strain.

Electrical Hazards

Electrical safety is another potential hazard for office workers. All machines and equipment, even items as simple as coffee pots, should be approved by management or safety personnel before use. Grounding of equipment and machines will help prevent shock hazards. Extension cords should be in good condition, and should not overload circuits. Plugs and wall outlets need to be inspected for safety.

Fire Prevention

Fire prevention and safety are hazard issues that all office employees should be aware of. Fire prevention, fire escape routes, locations of fire extinguishers, and emergency procedures should be taught to workers. Fire drills should be held on a regular basis to ensure safety of all occupants in an office setting.

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