At first glance, you may not think there’s much risk associated with office jobs. There’s no heavy machinery in offices like there is in industrial environments. There are the same risks that are present in forestry or construction work either.
While this is true, office workers throughout Florida face many hazards in the workplace and every year workers in these perceived “safe” environments suffer a serious work injuries or even die while on the job.
Some of the most common injuries seen in an office environment include lacerations, vision problems, fractures, musculoskeletal injuries, and repetitive strain injuries. The risk factors that create the environment for these injuries include:
- Items that fall from high shelves
- Sitting throughout the day, creating the possibility of muscle strains, blood clots, and other issues
- Long hours in front of a computer resulting in eye strain
- Repetitive motions
- Exposure to office machinery that may malfunction
- Lifting heavy items
- Falls
In situations that are rare, issues may be caused by improper workplace security. This often puts workers at risk of violence in the workplace. This is a hazard that may come internally, from other workers, or externally, from customers and clients.
The good news is, there are several steps that business owners and managers can take to help prevent these situations. These include:
- Make sure all workers have access to ergonomic desks, chairs, and other equipment that’s adjustable to their needs and body size.
- Encourage regular movement and activity by allowing breaks or creating an office design that encourages workers to move and walk around.
- Install security systems or hire off-duty police officers to ensure the safety of those on-site, both workers and customers/clients.
- Institute regular checks to make sure there are no potentially dangerous debris on the floor, loose carpeting, power cords, or other types of hazards.
- Perform maintenance to ensure all parts of the building are properly lit, that the stairs are in good shape and have secure railings, and that any other issues with the building are addressed.
- Install a first aid station.
- Train all your employees about proper safety protocol.
- Create a safety policy for the workplace and adhere to it.
- Make sure doors and windows are secure at all times.
All employers and employees should take an active role in creating a safe and secure work environment. By employers listening to concerns and employees receiving proper training, everyone on-site can work as a team to prevent office work injuries and other safety issues.
If you have suffered an injury while in your office due to a work-related duty or task, you are likely eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits are designed to cover your lost income and medical costs. If you need assistance getting the compensation you deserve, our legal team can help. Contact us at Felice Trial Attorneys by calling (561) 444-8822 today.
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