Office safety training is necessary in every workplace.
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) sets guidelines to determine whether or not an office is following the appropriate safety procedures and rules. Safety guidelines include topics such as fire safety, smoke alarms, environment, ergonomics and hazardous materials. Maintaining a safe environment for employees promotes a productive work environment and a successful company.
Fire Safety
Employers must hold a fire risk assessment. This will determine the extent of fire safety materials you'll need in your office. Staff must be informed of fire safety risks. An emergency plan, including exit strategy, must be devised. Staff must receive information on the emergency plan and training. As part of the emergency plan, the employer must create a plan for issuing a warning in case of a fire. The employer must learn detect a fire and must install emergency lighting, fire safety signs and firefighting equipment. They must determine means of escape.
Alarms
Smoke detectors should be placed in every office. Smoke detectors are required in office buildings where disabled people use elevators. In this case, smoke detectors must be located in the elevator shaft, elevator lobby and elevator machine rooms. All installed smoke detectors must be fully functioning. Smoke detectors can't be covered or blocked.
Environment
Light that shines on or from behind a computer should not be too bright, as it can cause eye strain and headaches. Using a light diffuser or window blinds can help diffuse light. Offices must have good ventilation and air flow. Desks and chairs should not be placed in front of or underneath ventilation ducts. Air diffusers can help ventilate offices. Temperatures should range from 68 to 74 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter and 73 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer. Relative humidity should range from 30 to 60 percent.
Ergonomics
The word ergonomics refers to body position. Safe and healthy ergonomics means that the body is naturally aligned. Stress and strain to the body is reduced by natural alignment. Work stations (desks, chairs and computers) must be set up ergonomically to eliminate stress on the body.
Hazardous Materials
Discomfort and serious health problems can be caused by hazardous chemicals and materials in the workplace. Volatile organic compounds and harsh cleaning chemicals can cause a negative effect in workers. Particles from computers and machines can be hazardous. For example, particles from fax machines or laser printers can cause health problems. Check with the machine manufacturer to find out if the equipment emits pollutants. Place the machine in a well-ventilated area. New equipment should air out in a ventilated area for a few days before first use.
Tags: emergency plan, fire safety, Smoke detectors, degrees Fahrenheit, degrees Fahrenheit during, detectors must, employer must
