Make Your Office An Injury-Free Zone

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If you’re a business owner, you have a responsibility to ensure that the team you employ has access to a safe working environment. If accidents and injuries are commonplace, or your employees are taking time off on a regular basis, it’s time to reconsider your strategy.

Legal requirements

There are legal guidelines and regulations in place to protect employees from work-related accidents and illnesses. If you don’t comply with these laws, as the company director, you’ll be liable for any accidents and injuries that occur on your watch.

Often, being a good boss involves going above and beyond to make sure that you have a happy team. It’s sometimes not enough to adhere to the law. There are other steps you can take to try and make your office an injury-free zone. Here are some tips:

Beating back pain

Back pain is one of the most common work-related illnesses in the world. In most offices, it’s the main reason workers require sick days. If you employ a team of office workers, it’s important to do all you can to minimise the risk of back pain. In many cases, back pain is caused by poor posture. Your posture relates to the alignment of your spine when you’re sitting or standing. If you’re slumped in your chair, you’re stooping, or you’re slouching, this increases the pressure on your back muscles, and it may contribute to aches and pains.

When you spend long periods of time at a desk, it’s hugely beneficial to provide equipment that promotes good posture, and subsequently, nullifies the threat of back pain. If you’re unsure what to buy or how to cope with the threat of back pain in the office, you could hire an office ergonomics trainer from Work Active. You may also consider factoring in compulsory short breaks throughout the day, and providing standing desks, as well as traditional versions.

Avoiding slips and trips

Slips, trips, and falls are the most common type of workplace accident. You are required to follow health and safety guidelines to keep employees safe, but there may be additional measures you can take. Think carefully about the layout of the office, and ensure that there is enough space between desks. Provide areas for employees to leave coats and jackets, and encourage people to keep their areas tidy. Carry out regular risk assessment, and address issues, such as damaged flooring, as quickly as possible.