Standard Grade Administration Area of Study 1: Administrative Support Unit 2b: Safe Working Practices & Procedures

Identify 2 hazards shown in the picture below.

Hazards identified Glare on computer screen Trailing cables Overloaded sockets Cup of coffee at computer Folders lying on floor Box falling off desk Inappropriate chairs

Eye Strain/Headaches Provide staff with anti-glare screen Install blinds Remind staff to take regular breaks Send staff for regular eye tests Subsidise cost of glasses for staff Adjust brightness/contrast controls

Tripping hazards For trailing cables: For items lying on floor: Install a cable management system Secure cables around the wall/skirting board Install cable covers/tidies Reposition furniture For items lying on floor: Provide filing cabinets/shelving. Provide larger desks.

Electrocution (overloaded sockets) Install additional sockets Rearrange equipment (nearer other sockets)

Electrocution (faulty equipment) Ensure all equipment is regularly maintained. Switch off faulty equipment. Ensure all faults are reported immediately. Put up a notice informing staff of faulty equipment. Put up notices reminding staff of what to do in the event of a fault. Ensure staff are trained in the correct use of equipment.

Electrocution/Burns (liquid near machines) Remind staff of the dangers of liquid beside machines (send a memo/e-mail). Ban staff from bringing liquid to desks. Provide a separate area.

Backache, Leg & Foot Pain Provide adjustable chairs Ensure staff take regular breaks Provide foot rests/wrist rests Provide ergonomic furniture

RSI – What is it? Repetitive strain injury is a condition where pain and other symptoms occur in an area of the body which has done repetitive tasks (often arms or hands). The term repetitive strain injury (RSI) is used to describe a range of painful conditions of the muscles, tendons and other soft tissues. The main cause is frequent and repetitive movements of a part of the body. For example, typing, using a computer mouse a lot, etc. Other factors may contribute, such as poor posture whilst doing the movement, using excessive force whilst doing the movement, and not having enough breaks from the task.

Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) Provide staff with wrist rests Remind staff to take regular breaks Provide/check training has been given Provide adjustable chairs Check the layout of the desk/workstation Purchase/check suitability of wrist rests/footrests Ensure staff duties/tasks are varied.

Stress Ensure that staff are fully trained in the use of equipment/software Provide counselling

Look at the pictures which follow: Identify the hazards Identify the problems staff may suffer as a result of each hazard Suggest a solution for each

Source: Leckie & Leckie