Office Health and Safety Documents

While office work may be considered a relatively low-risk job, some risk factors are still associated with it. These include, but are not limited to, three of the most common issues which:

• Slips, trips and falls.
• Ergonomic-related injuries (sitting down for hours of the day could cause back problems, for example).
• Eye strain from looking at screens for many hours at a time.
• RSI injuries from typing.

To help reduce these risks, health and safety documents promoting safe working practices should be in place, accompanied by relevant staff training.

Slips, Trips and Falls:

Slips, trips, and falls are some of the most common accidents in the UK workplace. They can happen anywhere, from busy construction sites to quiet office environments. The causes of slips, trips, and falls can vary, but they often occur due to wet or slippery floors, uneven surfaces, boxes or materials left in walkways, or poor lighting. These accidents can result in a range of injuries, from minor bruises and scrapes to more severe injuries, such as broken bones or head trauma. To prevent workplace slips, trips, and falls, employers must take proactive measures such as regular cleaning and maintenance, relevant signage as required, and ensuring that walkways are free from obstacles.

Providing staff training for slips, trips, and falls is an effective way to educate employees about potential hazards and how to avoid them.

Workstations and DSE:

Display Screen Equipment, or DSE, refers to electronic devices with a visual display, such as computer monitors, laptops, and tablets. Proper training in DSE use and correct workstation set-up is of utmost importance for most office staff, as they can help prevent health issues like eye strain, back pain, and repetitive strain injuries. A good workstation setup entails adjusting the height of the display screen so that the top of the screen is at eye level, correctly positioning the keyboard and mouse, ensuring proper lighting conditions, and taking regular breaks from the screen to rest your eyes and stretch your muscles. By following these guidelines, you can work comfortably and efficiently while minimising the risk of discomfort or injury.

HSEDocs strongly believes in the significance of staff training for office workers. We provide a comprehensive and enlightening online DSE (Display Screen Equipment) training course which covers all the essential aspects of office ergonomics. This course is designed to help office workers understand how to properly set up their work area to prevent musculoskeletal disorders and other health issues related to prolonged computer use. The course is easy to understand and provides practical tips that can be easily implemented in the workplace. HSEDocs' online DSE training course is an excellent investment for any organisation that values the health and well-being of its employees.