Ergonomic Hazards in an Office Setting

The work place is full of hidden dangers that you may not realize are present. Office injuries are common. They can occur through simple neglect or reckless disregard for safety basics. Ergonomic hazards are physical factors in an office that can hurt your bones, joints and muscles. Knowing these risks in an office environment can reduce your chance of harm and keep you healthy.

Falls

• Falls are common in an office, and usually occur because of unseen obstacles in common pathways. These include open desk or files draws, computer cords, loose carpeting and miscellaneous objects, such as packages and boxes stored inappropriately. Poor lighting is also a contributing factor to many falls.

Back Injury

• Lifting heavy boxes and computer equipment or moving furniture can cause back strain or more serious, long-term damage. Think twice before making heavy lifting part of your office job. Ask for assistance when in doubt about whether something can cause you to strain your back.

Bruises and Breaks

• A fast-paced office environment can compromise simple tasks. Opening a drawer or file cabinet without remembering to take your hand out of harm's way can bruise your wrist or break a finger. Hurrying for a meeting can also make you unaware of the dangers of just opening a door. Walking too quickly may cause you to bump into a desk, door or wall - especially if you're on a cell phone and looking down.

Work Station Hazards

• Just sitting at your desk can pose a hazard, if you don't have a chair with enough back support. Repetitive tasks, such as moving a computer mouse, can cause harm to your hand, wrist and shoulder muscles. Take breaks often, and consider some wrist support when using a mouse.