The hidden dangers of working in an office *

Have you ever asked your children what they want to be when they’re older?

I have, and the answers I get from my girls always fascinates me.

M usually says that she wants to be a ballerina.

R usually says that she wants to be a footballer.

The one thing that they have in common is that they both also say they’d like to work in a bakery like one of their older sisters did before she went off to university. I’m sure this will change as they get older, but it’s a good place to start to get some experience of what work is like.

When I was little I went through various phases. I wanted to be vet, a police officer and a gardener. Not all at the same time obviously! These were just a few of the different occupations I’d wanted to do.

Being an office worker was never one of those things.

In fact when I started my job in an office after leaving college, I told myself that it was just a stop-gap. 11 years later, I’m still working there so it can’t be all bad!

Working in an office has it’s perks. It’s indoors so it’s always warm. We get free fruit,  a share scheme, a lovely break room, canteen and lots more perks.

Sometimes though working in an office can be dangerous. If you’re unsure of what types of hazards there may be in an office, then this may help. This office safety graphic can help you find hazards and also give you some facts, as well as tell you what measures you can take to avoid these hazards.

For example, did you know that 20,294 people were injured by slip hazards. Exposed cables on the floor and water spillages are top risks. Slipping can cause broken bones, concussion and slipped discs to name a few.

You can avoid an injury by marking spills with a caution sign before clearing it up and by making sure wires or cables that can’t be moved should be covered with cable guards. (Source: RIDDOR)

Thankfully, I’ve never had experienced any hazards at work, but it’s always good to be on the look out and be aware of what you can do help minimise the risks.

Do you work in an office? Have you experienced any hazards whilst at work? I’d love to know. Just leave a comment below.