How to Make Office Areas Safer

All businesses need to take reasonable steps to mitigate risks and liabilities, including ones that apply to in-person visitors and employees. Although offices are generally considered safer working environments with lower risks of accidents and injuries, there are still some potential hazards and risks that should be minimized as much as possible in office settings. To help you accomplish this goal, here are some safety tips for your office.

Keep High-Traffic Areas Clear

Even in a comfortable office, there’s the possibility of sustaining injuries from tripping and falling, which could result in the need to file potentially costly insurance claims. Reduce this risk by keeping high-traffic locations in your office clear. Also, make sure cabinet drawers aren’t left open in areas where people walk through.

Minimize Office Clutter

You’ve probably seen cluttered desks at one time or another in pretty much any office. While it’s fine to give employees some room to personalize their work areas, too much clutter can be hazardous. Encourage everyone on your staff to keep office areas, especially those in open spaces, free of excess clutter.

Set Up Ergonomic Workspaces

Sitting for long periods contributes to a wide range of potentially serious health issues, including chronic lower back pain. These are problems that could affect your insurance if they contribute to more workers’ comp claims or employee health-related costs.

While sitting can’t always be avoided in many office settings, you can set up ergonomic workspaces or stations. Possibilities include:

• Using sit-to-stand desks
• Switching to chairs designed to offer better support
• Adjusting computer monitors so awkward body movements are avoided
• Maintaining proper chair and desk height for employees who need to sit to work

Safely Secure Electrical Cords

Offices naturally contain a lot of equipment with cords running to various outlets. If these cords aren’t properly secured, there’s a higher risk of fall-related injuries and electrical fires. Further reduce these risks by avoiding shortcuts like stapling electric cords and overloading outlets.

Properly Use & Maintain Office Equipment

Commercial insurance often covers equipment regularly used in an office. This typically includes costs for replacement and related damage that may occur. Keep everyone using equipment in your office safe by:

• Training employees on how to properly use office equipment
• Posting signs near equipment requiring specific precautions during use
• Keeping all office machinery and equipment properly maintained

Be Prepared for Potential Emergencies

From fires and floods to unexpected power outages, many emergency situations can occur in office spaces that require taking urgent action. It’s during such times when the risks of personal injuries and property damage are especially high. Keep everyone in your office as prepared for unexpected situations as possible by:

• Posting a list of emergency procedures in appropriate locations
• Including emergency-related protocols as part of routine training
• Identifying possible emergency situations that could affect your office
• Making sure everyone participates in drills
• Clearly labeling or identifying emergency exits

If you run a business and want to learn more about workplace safety and how it impacts your insurance rates, get in touch with the experienced team at Altra Insurance Services. We provide a variety of insurance products, including business, homeowners, motorcycle, and auto & car insurance in Chula Vista. No matter what your insurance needs are, we can help. Call one of our friendly agents today at (619) 404-6311.