9th October 2024

Is Your Office Safe?

While hazards in an office might not be as high risk as other working environments, accidents can and do still happen. In this blog, we identify the top 5 H&S issues and what you can address to create a safer office workplace

1 – Slips, trips and falls

Slips, trips and falls remain the most common cause of major workplace injuries. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), they account for 40% of all accidents, with up to 95% of them causing serious injuries such as broken bones, hospital trips and lost time. It is therefore important to prevent such hazards from arising by giving proper attention to clear floor spaces, maintaining the office clutter-free, ensuring handrails and stairs are kept in good condition – highlighting any changes in floor levels and maintaining suitable lighting levels. Don’t forget the car park or any paths leading to the office either.

2 – Display Screen Equipment (DSE)

Let’s face it, in just about every office around the country the majority of employees are working with DSE for extended periods. This presents risks such as work-related upper limb disorders (e.g. – RSI), eye strains and stress. It is therefore important that workspaces are well organised, that individual DSE assessments have been undertaken, and that staff are trained on correctly setting up their workstations. Eye tests should be routinely offered to all DSE users, and periodic breaks encouraged to mitigate risks and prevent ill health.

3 – Fire

Fire safety in the office is clearly crucial to protect both employees and property. Ensure that suitable means of fire detection and warning are provided and that fire fighting equipment is available. All exits need to be clearly marked and unobstructed. Train staff regularly in fire safety arrangements and communicate emergency plans including evacuation routes and procedures. Ensure that your fire risk assessment is in place, recorded and reviewed regularly.

4 – Electricity

Electrical hazards pose a serious threat – with just 50 volts capable of producing an electric shock, and electrical appliances, plugs and cables that are old or poorly wired pose a significant fire risk also. Preventive measures therefore include maintaining electrical equipment (both the mains installation and portable electrical appliances), replacing faulty devices promptly and avoiding overloading sockets or using multi-gang extension leads.

5 – Manual Handling

Activities such as lifting, carrying and moving loads can lead to sprains, strains and musculoskeletal injuries. To prevent them employees should only handle loads they can safely manage, use the mechanical aids that are provided and receive training on the correct manual handling techniques. Whilst you may think this isn’t particularly relevant in an office, just consider what could happen if, for example, archive boxes are moved, office desks relocated or heavy deliveries are accepted by staff etc.