Office environment hazards
Offices are generally considered to be low risk work environments. However this will only be the case if risks are managed well. Whilst physical injuries may be rare many office workers can experience work-related ill health, the most common problems being aches and pains from using computers and work related stress.
The Office Risk assessment (.docx) is a generic risk assessment template to assist managers’ risk assess their offices. Employees should ask to see the office risk assessment for their area.
Computers (display screen equipment)
Staff may suffer from aches and pains as a result of poor posture, workstation arrangement or prolonged use. This can become persistent or occasionally disabling. Eye discomfort or headache may also be caused by poor lighting or screen image, or prolonged use.
- Guidance on working with computers (.pdf).
How to manage risks from computers .
Stress
Staff could suffer from work-related stress as a result of work pressure, lack of job control, inadequate support or concerns relating to their role, relationships or change. Prolonged stress can lead to temporary physical and mental health effects. If not addressed, staff may develop significant mental or physical health problems.
Manual handling
Repetitive or prolonged periods of lifting, stretching and reaching may lead to back pain or other manual handling related injuries. Lifting of heavy or unbalanced loads incorrectly may also cause these injuries which can become persistent or occasionally disabling.
- Guidance on safe manual handling (.pdf).
Lifting and carrying at work .
Slips, trips and falls
Injuries to staff or visitors may be caused by slip and trip hazards such as spillages, trailing cables, uneven flooring, loose carpet - occasionally leading to serious injury. Staff may also fall when retrieving items stored at height, potentially resulting in serious injury.
Report slip and trip hazards promptly.- Guidance on the safe use of stepladders
- Step Too Far: Preventing falls from heights in offices and similar locations (.pdf)
Fire and emergency
Failure to evacuate safely could lead to staff and visitors suffering from smoke inhalation or burns if trapped in office and can potentially be fatal. People with limited mobility may have difficulty evacuating.
If you have a permanent or temporary disability you will need a
Work equipment and electrical safety
The use of unsafe electrical equipment can lead to electrical shocks or fire. Burns and cuts can also occur from incorrect use of office work equipment (eg laminators). Some electrical equipment is prohibited from offices because of the high risk of fire.
Use and safety of electrical equipment at work , including information on prohibited and dangerous electrical equipment.- Electrical equipment: simple visual checks (.pdf).
- Electrical safety advice for students.
Portable appliance testing Work equipment safety : includes guidance on inspection of stepladders, kickstools and trolleys
Personally owned equipment
Personally owned equipment used for work will need to be authorised by your head of department or line manager, as it is legally considered to be work equipment. The equipment will also need to be included in
Temperature
Staff may feel too hot/cold leading to general discomfort and low productivity.
