1. FALLS

Slips, trips, and falls, the most common type of office injury, sidelined OVER 25,000 workers in 2019, according to BLS. Several hazards contribute to these injuries, although most can be significantly reduced if you maintain a clutter-free environment. Boxes, files and various items piled in walkways can create a tripping hazard. Be certain that all materials are safely stored in their proper location to prevent the buildup of clutter in walkways. Further, in addition to posing an electrical hazard, stretching cords across walkways creates a tripping hazard, so ensure all cords are properly secured and covered. 

2. REACHING

Standing on chairs, particularly rolling office chairs, is a significant fall hazard. Workers who need to reach something at an elevated height should use a stepladder. The American Ladder Institute cautions that stepladders must be fully opened and placed on level, firm ground. Workers should never climb higher than the step indicated as the highest safe standing level.

3. MAINTAIN A CLEAR LINE OF VISION

Workers can collide when making turns in the hallways and around blind corners or cubicle walls. If workers can see who is coming around the corner, collisions are less likely to occur.

4. STRUCK/CAUGHT BY

File cabinets with too many fully extended drawers could tip over if they are not secured. Additionally, open drawers on desks and file cabinets pose a tripping hazard, so be sure to always completely close drawers when not in use.

5. SAFE STACKING

proper storage of heavy items can help reduce the number of office injuries. Large stacks of materials and heavy equipment can cause major injuries if they are knocked over. Heavy objects should be stored close to the floor, and the load capacity of shelves or storage units should never be exceeded.

6. ERGONOMICS

One size does not fit all in an office workstation. Chairs, work surfaces, monitor stands, etc., should all be adjustable in order to accommodate the widest range of employees. It is the intent of Pulsar Helium to provide employees with a variety of options. 

7. KNOW YOUR EQUIPMENT

Providing adjustable furniture and equipment is only the first step in creating an ergonomically sound workstation. Employees are expected to take the time to know and understand how to use and adjust the equipment provided by the company. Workers should also understand the most ergonomically beneficial way to set up their workstations. If you would like more information or additional training on both the ideal setup and how to operate equipment in the office setting it is important you reach out to your safety representative. 

8. BREAKS

Sitting all day puts YOU at risk for numerous health problems. It's important that workers stand and walk on regular occasions throughout the workday. Stretching and exercising during the day can also provide a substantial ergonomic health benefit.

9. ICE AND SNOW

Winter slips and falls on sidewalks and in parking lots are extremely common. When the ground is covered in ice you should walk like a penguin by walking flat-footed taking short, slow steps. It’s also important to wear sensible footwear and carry only what you can handle. 

10. OFFICE EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

• In the event of a fire, use the stairs and not the elevators to exit the building.
• In the event of a dangerous storm, stay in the building and away from the windows.
• In the event of a violent intruder, call 911 and use whatever means available to alert co-workers to the situation.
• In the event of a medical emergency, call 911 and provide first aid as necessary until medical responders arrive.