Louisiana Tech University
Department of Environmental Safety
Quarterly Safety Meeting

Topic 1

(318) 257-2120

Office Safety

For additional information, see Louisiana Tech University Safety Manual, or check this excerpt.

1.	The objective of this safety meeting is to increase the awareness of potential
	office hazards.

2.	The types of hazards you find in an office are surprisingly similar to those you 
	would find in a plant or laboratory.

  Falling Objects
  Slips, Trips and Falls
  Fires
  Electrical Shock
  Hazardous Chemicals
  Back Injuries

3.	Identifying Hazards:

Slippery or uneven floor surfaces or tom carpet or linoleum
Poorly balanced stacks or cartons or other materials Open file or desk drawers
Top-heavy file cabinets Cords, boxes and other materials in aisles Blocked emergency exits
Excessive use of extension cords Overloaded electrical outlets Cords with frayed
insulation Open containers of combustible trash Open containers of chemicals Stairs with
poor lighting or missing handrails
Tools" of the office (knife cutter, razor blades, scissors, etc.)

4.	The best protection against office hazards is good housekeeping. People need to be 
	aware that certain substances can be hazardous, and what circumstances make them hazardous.

5.	To avoid injury when lifting something, lift with your legs not your back. If possible, use dollies
	or other equipment to aid in lifting and carrying office products.

6.	Offices need to be prepared for emergencies. Know who to contact and what to do in the
	event of an emergency. The phone number for University Police is 4018.

Discussion Questions:

What are some poor housekeeping hazards in your office?

What are some electrical hazards in your office?

How might people injure their backs in your office?

What are other unsafe acts that could cause accidents in your office?