Tips for Staying Safe in The Workplace

Different jobs and office spaces have different risk types and levels. Nonetheless, you should always do your best to ensure that you remain safe when at work. You spend most of your time in your office. So, ensuring safety and comfort should be your top priority. Start by understanding the occupational hazards you are prone to before determining how well you can stay safe. 

Workplace safety tips

Understand your job hazards

Understanding your job hazards entails knowing your surroundings, where things are stored, how to operate office appliances and machinery where applicable as well as how to fix simple office equipment. You learn most of this things during your initial training or your probation period. Know how to use the copier, where cleaning supplies are stored just in case you spill your drink. Spillages are major causes of falls at workplaces and homes. 

Seating position

At the office, you spend most of your time sitting especially in front of a computer. If you fail to get the right sitting posture, you risk suffering from serious back and neck injuries. If possible suggest the purchase of ergonomic office chairs. They are adjustable, comfortable and support the right posture. Alternatively, always sit with the hips and shoulders aligned to reduce the chances of back or neck injury as well pressure on your back. 

Allow the eyes to rest

Staring at a computer all day is normal at most workplaces. However, this is a norm that comes with its set of safety and health challenges. Your eyes are at a high risk of developing problems due to the high bright screen exposure. Experts advise on taking regular breaks to retain your eyes good condition and avoiding to stare at bright screens closely. 

Familiarize with your workplace’s emergency plan

Every workplace has an emergency exit and action plan. So, before settling in, ensure that you know the emergency exit routes on every floor including ones that you would be using less often. Note the shortest route to get out of your work area in case of an emergency and ensure that the escape route is clear; it should not be stuffed with boxes or old equipment. 

Air your grievances

If you find your workplace unsafe do not be afraid to speak up. However, find a polite way of addressing the unsafe working conditions with your boss. Alternatively, leave an anonymous note in the suggestion box. For instance, in case the air conditioner fails, notify your supervisor or raise the issue during one of your regular organizational meetings. Report safety hazards if your working area is congested and you have to navigate through supplies to complete your job.

Be kind to your body

Sitting all day makes us inactive, and as a result, you end up eating too much junk food because you do not want to leave the office for a healthy meal or you forgot to pack one. You simply send your colleague or order an office delivery from a fast food joint. Too much inactivity means that you become sluggish and sometimes less productive. So, take breaks and walk to the break room or just a lap in the office to boost energy levels and remain active. 

Deep breathing exercises

Work can be stressing, and stress affects your health negatively. When you get stressed at work, relieve it by taking deep breaths occasionally. Taking five to ten deep breaths occasionally helps a lot.

Know when to take a break

Like most people, you rely on employment to meet your basic needs. So, you may find it hard to take breaks even when feeling unwell or simply unable to work. But, if your body demands for a break, obey it. Take a break from work when feeling sick or under the weather. 

Understand your rights

Every worker has a right to a safe and healthy working area/ conditions. Knowing these rights gives you the power to know and correct your employer when they fail to fulfill them. 

Conclusion

Your office may be a safe and healthy working area when starting off. But, things may change as time passes and it is important to be on the lookout. Beware of health and safety risks and do your best to remain productive at work.