Common Office Hazards

Common Office Hazards Working toward VPP requires the participation of everyone One way to be proactive in VPP is to identify S&H hazards before they present a problem View the following slides to see some of the most common office hazards Make sure to promptly report any of these issues if you see them in your work area Our goal is to create the safest and healthiest work environment as possible

Loose carpet squares can result in trips and falls. Have You Seen This? Loose carpet squares can result in trips and falls.

Have You Seen This? A shredder should also have a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) to inform the users of the hazards of using the shredder and how to protect themselves. Oil can be dangerous if it comes into contact with your skin or eyes. The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) should be available and read prior to use.

Have You Seen This? An unknown material on vents may signify that something is wrong or just mean that the vents need cleaned.

Have You Seen This? Clutter can fall over, contribute to a fire, and just looks unprofessional. Image taken from: digitaljournal.com

Have You Seen This? Leaving cabinet drawers open after use can pose a tripping hazard and/or injure someone that walks into it. Image taken from: iglassbox.site40.net

Have You Seen This? Storage, such as boxes, should be kept at least 18” below sprinkler heads. Blocking the sprinkler heads will make them ineffective during a fire. Image taken from: leecountync.gov

Have You Seen This? Paper cutters left open can cause cuts. Make sure they are closed and clamped when finished with them.

Have You Seen This? Storage in aisles and hallways can block exits and fire equipment (fire extinguishers, fire pull alarm boxes). How would you get out quickly during a fire or grab that needed fire extinguisher? Image taken from: dtc.dla.mil

Cords draped across the floor present a tripping hazard. Have You Seen This? Cords draped across the floor present a tripping hazard. Image taken from: pcsweeney.com

Have You Seen This? Daisy chains occur when power strips are plugged into extension cords or when power strips are plugged into other power strips. Power strips are only approved to supply power to the number of outlets on the strip. When multiple strips are joined together, the power strip must also supply power to the other items plugged in. This can lead to an electric overload and cause a fire or trip the breaker. Image taken from: electrical-contractor.net

What can you find wrong here? Have You Seen This? What can you find wrong here? Image taken from: http://www.nsc.org/safetyhealth/Pages/CubicalCatastrophies.aspx

Have You Seen This? 6. Paper cutters should be closed when not in use. 2. Boxes should not be stored on top of cabinets. 7. Don’t leave food out on the desk. It can cause rodents to lurk around the area. 8. The computer workstation should be adjustable so it can be adjusted according to the user. 9. Do not overload outlets. 11. Try to keep a lid on all hot liquids. 10. Do not keep hot plates in a cubicle. They can start a fire. 3. Ensure space heaters are approved for use before bringing them into the office. If they are permitted, never leave them on and unattended. Image taken from: http://www.nsc.org/safetyhealth/Pages/CubicalCatastrophies.aspx 1. Cords running across an office can be a tripping hazard. 5. Never leave file cabinets open. 4. Boxes should not be placed where they block the path toward an exit.