Office Safety

Workers exposed to poor indoor air quality may experience headaches, shortness of breath, coughing or nausea.

The high volume of electrical equipment in a typical office can expose workers to serious electrical hazards, including shocks, burns and fire, the Rosslyn, VA-based Electrical Safety Foundation International warns.

According to experts, including the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, little clinical evidence suggests computer keyboard use is a risk factor for developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Although other types of hand strain can result from overuse of a keyboard or mouse, CTS likely is not linked to these actions.

Chicago – Workers who eat at their desk may be exposed to harmful bacteria, putting them at risk for foodborne illness, the American Dietetic Association warned Aug. 23.

Equipment such as adjustable chairs and ergonomic mouse pads can help prevent strain among workers sitting at a desk. But workers required to stand for long periods of time are subject to strain injuries that cannot be prevented with such equipment.

In December 2010, President Barack Obama signed the Telework Enhancement Act, which required government agencies to establish a policy on working outside the office and identify which employees would be eligible to do so. The act also required government agencies to incorporate a telework program into their emergency plans for natural disasters or other emergencies.

Telework!VA, part of the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation, publishes a telework office safety checklist to assess work-at-home employees' work areas.

A job where most of the work tasks are completed while sitting in a chair in a climate-controlled office building would seem less fraught with danger. However, a surprising number of hazards can be present in an office setting.

Frequently using a computer may cause ergonomics issues, warns the Rosemont, IL-based American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Computer vision syndrome, a condition with symptoms including headaches, dry eyes and blurred vision, can occur in any work environment that requires extended periods of time looking at a computer monitor.