1. OFFICE SAFETY INTRODUCTION Despite common beliefs that the office provides a safe environment in which to work, many hazards exist which cause thousands of injuries and health problems each year among office workers. Today’s modern offices are substantially different from the office environment of 20 years ago. Sweeping changes have occurred in the American workplace as a result of new office technology and automation of office equipment. Consequently, office workers are faced with many more hazards.

2. In addition to obvious hazards such as a slippery floor or an open file drawer, a modern office may also contain hazards such as poor lighting, noise, poorly designed furniture and equipment, and machines which emit noxious gases and fumes. Even the nature of office work itself has produced a whole host of stress-related symptoms and musculoskeletal strains.

4. Strains and over-exertion

5. Struck by or striking objects

6. Caught in or between objects. In addition, office workers are also injured as a result of foreign substances in the eye, spilled hot liquids, burns from fire, and electric shock.

8. Synthetic chemicals (e.g., formaldehyde, cleaning fluids, cigarette smoke, asbestos)An adequate office ventilation system which delivers quality indoor air and provides for comfortable humidity and temperature is a necessity. Office machines and ventilation system components should be checked and maintained on a regular basis.

10. Shadows

12. Light-colored dull finish on walls, ceilings, and floors to reduce glare

13. Adjustable shades on windows

15. High-speed printers

16. Telephones

18. Use carpeting, draperies, and acoustical ceiling tiles to muffle noise

19. Adjust telephone volume to its lowest level

21. Group employees who use the same machines

22. Office machines should be kept away from edges of desks and tables

23. Regular inspection, repair, and replacement of faulty carpets

24. Place mats inside building entrances

26. Generally two exits should be provided

27. Exits and access to exits must be marked

28. Means of egress, including stairways used for emergency exit, should be free of obstructions and adequately lit

30. Use flame-retardant materials

31. Smoke only in designated areas and use proper ashtrays

32. Fire extinguishers and alarms should be conspicuously placed and accessible. NOTE: There is a fire extinguisher is located across from the reception desk.

34. Heavy objects should be stored on lower shelves and materials stacked neatly.

35. Materials should be stored inside cabinets, files, or lockers whenever possible.

36. Materials must not be stored in aisles, corners, or passageways.

37. Fire equipment should remain unobstructed.

39. Avoid the use of poorly maintained or non-approved equipment

40. Cords should not be dragged over nails, hooks, or other sharp objects

41. Receptacles should be installed and electric equipment maintained so that no live parts are exposed

43. Do not lean back in a chair with your feet on a desk

44. Do not scoot across the floor while sitting on a chair

45. Never stand on a chair to reach an overhead object

46. Open only one file drawer at a time

47. Do not locate file cabinets close to doorways or in aisles

49. Ladders should be inspected regularly to ensure they are in good condition

50. The top of a ladder should not be used as a step

53. Excessive noise

55. Reduce noise exposure by isolating the machine

56. Place machines in well-ventilated areas away from workers' desks

57. Have machines serviced routinely to prevent chemical emissions

58. Avoid skin contact with photocopying chemicals

60. Noise

61. Eye irritation

62. Low-back, neck, and shoulder pain

63. StressStudies have shown that the radiation levels emitted from VDTs are well below those allowed by current standards. However, to minimize any potential exposure, only equipment for which the manufacturer will supply data on emissions should be used.To minimize noise, VDTs should not be clustered and sound absorbent screens can be used if needed.

64. ALIGNMENT CHECK: CHECK YOUR POSTURE AND ALIGNMENT WITH YOUR WORKSTATION Proper ergonomic design includes the relation of the operator to the screen, background, lighting, and operator's posture.

66. Avoid use of extension cords – where possible, install outlets.

67. Regularly check small appliances such as coffee makers, lamps, etc.

68. Store heavy objects on lower shelves and not on top of shelving units or cabinets.

69. Ensure safety stops are utilized in desk drawers and filing cabinets.

70. To avoid slips and falls, do not run in the office.

71. Be alert when using stairways –often accidents happen when someone is in conversation.

72. Good housekeeping is essential to prevent accidents – pick up paper, clips, rubber bands, etc. as soon as you see them on the floor.

73. Only use one file drawer at a time to prevent a cabinet from toppling over.

74. Remember to wear safety glasses when visiting the plant.

75. For an effective safety program, all employees must report safety hazards and accidents when they happen. Please be involved!PLEASE GO TO THE FOLLOWING WEB-ADDRESS TO COMPLETE THE OFFICE SAFETY QUIZ: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/37NPSKH