For many people, a day at the office typically starts with a trip to the breakroom for a cup of coffee and a slow walk back to their workstations, perhaps stopping to chat with a co-worker along the way. Then the workday truly begins with hours at a time spent in front of a computer, and a number of important meetings or phone calls throughout the day. While these mundane tasks may seem relatively safe due to their low-impact nature, it is important to remember that office settings can actually be rather dangerous, perhaps resulting in serious leg, neck, back and spine injuries.

To illustrate, hours spent typing can lead to the onset of carpal tunnel syndrome, a tangle of computer cords can cause someone to fall and hurt their knee, and putting away a misplaced box of heavy files can cause a debilitating back injury.

Furthermore, data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates that in 2009 alone there were 3.2 million workplace injuries in the private sector and nearly one million days spent away from the office. In fact, of these 3.2 million injuries, 212,760 were falls and 195,150 were back injuries.

In light of these dangers, health and safety experts recommend that employers/employees strongly consider taking the following measures:

  • Remove furniture, boxes and other items from hallways/walkways that could present a potential tripping hazard
  • Be watchful when navigating hallways, stairs, etc., avoiding reading or using a cell phone while in transit
  • Make sure work stations are ergonomically friendly
  • Make sure harsh chemical cleaners or other strong odors are kept clear of work stations
  • Install lighting that is designed to cut back on eye fatigue
  • Implement a wellness program to improve mental and physical wellbeing

Lastly, experts recommend that employers consider implementing a policy/procedure for ensuring that the office is free from potential hazards.

"Although office injuries will never drop to zero despite our best efforts, there are ways to minimize the numbers," said Dr. Scott Levy, the chief of occupational medicine at San Rafael Kaiser. "Developing an ongoing program where office hazards are continually monitored will lead to improved staff morale in addition to the obvious benefit of an overall safer workplace."

Stay tuned for further developments from our San Diego workers' compensation blog ...

You should strongly consider seeking the necessary medical treatment if you have suffered any type of neck, back and spine injury - regardless of your employment setting.

This post was for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.

Related Resources:

Marin Independent Journal "Workplaces are safer but accidents still happen" Sept. 5, 2011