--- title: 12 Key Office Safety Risks to Address Now description: Our experienced risk management team uncovers the 12 biggest office safety risks. 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- - - [whatsapp://send?text=https://blog.axcethr.com/12-key-office-safety-risks-to-address-now](whatsapp://send?text=https://blog.axcethr.com/12-key-office-safety-risks-to-address-now) - [mailto:?subject=12%20Key%20Office%20Safety%20Risks%20to%20Address%20Now&body=https://blog.axcethr.com/12-key-office-safety-risks-to-address-now](mailto:?subject=12%20Key%20Office%20Safety%20Risks%20to%20Address%20Now&body=https://blog.axcethr.com/12-key-office-safety-risks-to-address-now) ![office-safety (1)](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs-fs/hubfs/office-safety%20(1).webp?width=1200&height=800&name=office-safety%20(1).webp) When you’re running a small business, the world may be your oyster, but often, time is not on your side. Time, energy, and other resources are generally fully devoted to growing, scaling, and keeping things humming along in your core business. As a result, details like office safety can sometimes fall by the wayside. Businesses operating in industries like [manufacturing](https://blog.axcethr.com/manufacturing-safety-identifying-hazards-reducing-injuries), agriculture and construction have to keep safety top of mind—but companies that employ workers chiefly in office settings need to consider their [safety culture](https://blog.axcethr.com/workplace-safety-risk-management), too. The numbers don’t lie: the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes annual statistics showing tens of thousands of work-related injuries and health problems suffered by office workers every year. ## Common Office Safety Hazards Some of the most prevalent risks to office safety include both physical hazards and preparedness gaps that can impact employee health and well-being. - Ergonomic injuries  - Electrical issues  - Office fires  - Slips, trips and falls  - Lack of emergency preparedness - Environmental threats  Many of these risks stem from everyday office conditions, and addressing them proactively can help employers reduce preventable injuries related to [common office hazards](https://blog.axcethr.com/a-safer-workplace-kicking-office-hazards-to-the-curb). ## Office Safety Guidelines In this article, I’ll review these common occupational health and safety risks one by one. I’ll also cover 12 of the most helpful office safety guidelines and tips that small businesses can implement right now, so you can protect your office workers.  [![New call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/88e31763-46ef-4aa8-856f-76e29d0f5a1c.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2652187/88e31763-46ef-4aa8-856f-76e29d0f5a1c) ## Office Ergonomics  ### Set up desks and chairs properly  The Cleveland Clinic reports that poor sitting posture can lead to real health damage long-term. According to Dr. Andrew Bang, “Poor posture forces you to overwork the muscles in your neck and back. Your immune system’s efforts to heal those muscles spur inflammation that, over time, can lead to arthritis in nearby joints.” Proper office ergonomics play a critical role in employee comfort, health and quality of life. Help your office workers maintain good sitting posture by making sure their chairs are adjustable and can accommodate different heights and sizes. Employees should also be instructed to maintain a neutral posture with their feet flat on the floor, their elbows at 90-degree angles and their computer screens at a comfortable eye level.  ### Correctly position the keyboard and mouse  According to the [University of California,](https://www.ucop.edu/safety-and-loss-prevention/_files/ergonomics/keyboards-mice-accessories.pdf) improper keyboard and mouse positioning are a common source of repetitive strain in the hands, wrists and fingers. Employees’ keyboards should be either flat or tilted slightly away from them, rather than propped up toward them on kick-stand legs. Computer mice should also be the right size for each employee. Mice that are too big can lead to over-gripping, causing discomfort in the wrists and elbows, while too-small mice lead to pinching and fatigue in the fingers and hand.  RELATED: [Safety Issues at Work? Here's How to Mitigate Legal Risk >>](https://blog.axcethr.com/safety-issues-at-work-heres-how-to-mitigate-legal-risks) ## Technology-Related Office Safety Risks Modern offices rely heavily on technology, which introduces safety concerns beyond traditional desk setups. Extended screen time can contribute to digital eye strain, headaches and fatigue, while poorly managed cables, chargers, and devices may create tripping or electrical hazards. Employers can reduce technology-related risks by encouraging regular screen breaks, ensuring monitors are positioned at appropriate heights and distances, and keeping cords and charging stations organized and out of walkways. ## Electrical Safety  ### Practice safe use of electrical equipment  Employees should be instructed to avoid overloading outlets, and they should never plug multi-outlet bars (or “power strips”) into other multi-outlet bars. Surge protectors should always be used.  ### Ensure proper wiring and outlet use  Covering electrical outlets that are not in use can be a good workplace safety practice, particularly in environments where outlets may be exposed to dust, liquids or frequent contact. This may be more relevant in certain industries, such as retail, childcare, healthcare, food service or hospitality. Outlet covers can help prevent objects from being inserted into the outlets and reduce the risk of electrical shock. However, outlet covers are not required in all workplaces. Specific requirements depend on local electrical codes, applicable safety regulations and the conditions present in your workplace. Outlets can be covered with various types of safety devices, such as:  - Plug-in covers or caps  - Sliding plate covers  - Box covers  - Tamper-resistant receptacles  Your office space should be inspected at regular intervals, and all electrical devices, including computers, printers and other larger items, should be properly maintained.  [![first aid training](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/a9a885aa-d952-469a-be79-2e22c50553df.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2652187/a9a885aa-d952-469a-be79-2e22c50553df) ## Fire Safety  ### Know fire extinguisher locations and usage  Most office spaces are required to provide portable fire extinguishers. The National Fire Protection Association recommends that offices maintain one fire extinguisher for every 3,000 square feet of space. Employees should be trained on the proper use of fire extinguishers. ### Practice regular fire drills  Double-check your compliance with all applicable fire safety laws. Depending on your business’ size and location, you may be required to have a written fire drill plan in place. One of the best ways to protect your workers in the event of an office fire is to be proactive. All employees should practice a well-vetted fire drill periodically.  RELATED: [How to Conduct a Fire Drill at Work >>](https://blog.axcethr.com/how-to-conduct-a-fire-drill-at-work) ## Slip, Trip and Fall Prevention  ### Keep walkways clear  Whether your office space is new or old, potential workplace safety hazards could be in the way of your employees’ paths around the office. Check your carpeting for ripples and rips, keep cables clear from walkways, and use caution signs for wet floors and uneven grounds. All employees should be instructed to close cabinets and file drawers after using them—they should not be left open for any period of time. Employers can reduce slip and fall risks by keeping walkways clear, addressing uneven surfaces promptly, and reinforcing [slip and fall prevention strategies](https://blog.axcethr.com/5-ways-to-keep-slips-and-falls-from-tripping-up-your-workplace) that help employees stay safe on the job. OSHA reports that loss of traction is the leading cause of workplace slips, often due to wet or uneven surfaces. Whether ice, snow or rain are the usual culprits, employers should ensure that the outdoor and indoor paths of ingress and egress for their office space have anti-slip measures in place, including signage, salt and entry rugs.  ### Promptly clean up spills  All employees should be responsible for immediately cleaning up or alerting maintenance staff of spills as soon as they occur. Be sure to have safe and environmentally friendly cleaning supplies available and well-stocked for employees to use.  ## Emergency Preparedness  ### Stock first aid kits and provide training  First aid kits should be stocked in a visible and accessible area, and all items in the kit should be checked against their expiration dates periodically.  ### Develop evacuation plans and practice routes  Do you have a plan in place for your response to natural disasters or other emergencies? Check your [HR compliance](https://www.axcethr.com/services/human-resources/hr-compliance-specialist/) with federal, state and local laws; develop an evacuation plan, and review and practice it with your workforce.  Even in office environments, employers should ensure employees know how to report emergencies, who to contact and where to find safety information quickly. Emergency preparedness for office environments now extends beyond fire response. Employers should also consider how employees will receive instructions during severe weather events, power outages, or building access disruptions. Effective preparedness is also part of [building a broader positive safety culture](https://blog.axcethr.com/positive-safety-cultures-why-every-business-should-build-one) that supports employee engagement and reduces workplace risks overall. Clear communication plans, up-to-date emergency contact information, and defined responsibilities help employees respond calmly and safely when unexpected situations arise. ## Environmental Safety ### Ensure proper ventilation  Air vents should remain open and unblocked within your office space, air ducts should be cleaned and air filters should be replaced on a regular basis. Some of the most common air pollutants in office spaces are radon, particle pollution, carbon monoxide and Legionella bacterium. Testing for and remediation of indoor pollutants is typically performed when required or when there are signs that contaminants may be present. ### Maintain a clean and hygienic workspace  Encourage employees to maintain a clean workspace in order to prevent the spread of germs and diseases. If employees share spaces or use desks interchangeably, you may consider asking them to disinfect the surfaces they touch at the end of each workday.  RELATED: [Why Health and Safety Practices in the Workplace Matter >>](https://blog.axcethr.com/safe-workplaces-are-good-for-employees-and-employers)  ## **Office Safety in Flexible and Hybrid Work Environments** As more businesses adopt flexible or hybrid work arrangements, office safety considerations may shift. Employees who work in shared spaces or rotate between locations may be less familiar with emergency exits, equipment locations, or office-specific safety procedures. Employers can support safety in flexible workplaces by providing consistent safety orientation for all employees, clearly labeling emergency resources, and ensuring shared workspaces are maintained with the same safety standards as permanent offices. RELATED: [Is Your Team Remote? You Still Need Workers' Comp for Remote Employees >>](https://blog.axcethr.com/workers-comp-for-remote-employees) ## **Need support strengthening your office safety practices?** Building a culture of workplace safety goes beyond checklists. Clear policies, regular training, and proactive risk management help protect employees and reduce preventable incidents. If you have questions about office safety guidelines, training programs or broader [workplace risk management](https://www.axcethr.com/services/workers-comp-and-employee-safety-risk-management/), Axcet HR Solutions can provide practical guidance tailored to your organization.  [Schedule a consultation >>](https://www.axcethr.com/schedule-consultation/) [![New call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/9fd441ae-ace0-4fe1-8545-510ca69f0ed4.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2652187/9fd441ae-ace0-4fe1-8545-510ca69f0ed4) [![Sam Hihn](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs-fs/hubfs/_DSC9345-Edit.jpg?width=80&height=80&name=_DSC9345-Edit.jpg)](https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn) Written by #### [Sam Hihn](https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn) Sam Hihn is a Safety and Health Consultant at Axcet HR Solutions, where he helps businesses build safer, more compliant workplaces through practical, hands-on risk management strategies. He works closely with client organizations to identify hazards, strengthen safety practices, and implement programs that protect employees while supporting operational efficiency. Sam partners directly with business leaders and frontline teams to assess workplace environments, equipment, and processes, ensuring alignment with OSHA standards and other regulatory requirements. He develops customized safety and health programs tailored to each organization's needs and provides guidance through OSHA inspections, citation responses, and corrective action planning—helping clients navigate compliance with clarity and confidence. A key part of Sam's work is translating complex safety requirements into clear, actionable steps. He conducts safety training, supports incident investigations to determine root causes, and delivers practical recommendations to prevent future issues. His approach focuses not only on meeting regulatory standards but on building sustainable safety practices that become part of everyday operations. With a background in manufacturing and safety roles, Sam brings real-world perspective to the challenges employers face. He is known for his approachable style, attention to detail, and commitment to helping teams take ownership of workplace safety. Through his writing, Sam shares actionable insights and guidance to help employers reduce risk, improve compliance, and create safer environments where employees can thrive. Read more [View all posts →](https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn) ### Get HR Updates ### Table of Contents #### [Unlocking Selection Success: 7 Hiring Mistakes That Jam the Process ![7 hiring mistakes that result in a bad employee](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/how%20to%20prevent%20bad%20hires.jpg)](https://blog.axcethr.com/7-reasons-companies-hire-the-wrong-employees-and-how-to-avoid-it) #### [![picture of business closed due to weather with sign on door](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/business-closed-due-to-weather-_1200-x-628-px_-_1_%20(1).webp) How Employers Communicate When Businesses Are Closed Due to Weather](https://blog.axcethr.com/qa-tips-for-workplace-closure-notifications) ## Let us know what you think... ![AxcetHR Blog](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/AxcetHR2021%20Blog/axcethr_logo_white%20(1).png) - [Why Axcet](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/) - [What We Stand For](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/what-we-stand-for/) - [Expertise](https://www.axcethr.com/expertise/) - [Employee Benefits](https://www.axcethr.com/services/employee-benefits/) - [Human Resources](https://www.axcethr.com/services/human-resources/) - [Payroll Services](https://www.axcethr.com/services/payroll-and-tax-administration-services/) - [Risk Management](https://www.axcethr.com/services/workers-comp-and-employee-safety-risk-management/) - [Meet the Team](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/meet-the-team/) - [Subscribe to Latest Resources](https://www.axcethr.com/subscribe-to-the-latest-resources/) - [Resource Library](https://www.axcethr.com/expertise/resource-library/) - [\[ Client Portal \]](https://www.axcethr.com/client-services/) - - - - - Search for: Copyright © 2023 Axcet HR Solutions – Kansas City's PEO Since 1988 | [Privacy Policy](https://www.axcethr.com/privacy-policy/) | [Terms and Conditions](https://www.axcethr.com/terms-conditions/) | [**Join our Team – Careers »**](https://axcethrsolutions.prismhr-hire.com/) 10975 Grandview Drive Suite 200, Corporate Woods Building 27, Overland Park, KS 66210 | Call us: 913-383-2999 *The IRS does not endorse any particular For more information on [certified professional employer organizations](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/certified-peo/), go to [www.irs.gov](https://www.irs.gov).* Remove cookies ![](https://dc.ads.linkedin.com/collect/?pid=43031&fmt=gif) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Sam Hihn", "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn" }, "dateModified" : "2026-09-09T03:20:20.434Z", "datePublished" : "2026-01-26T13:00:00.000Z", "headline" : "12 Key Office Safety Risks to Address Now", "image" : [ "https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/office-safety-_1200-x-628-px_%20(1).webp" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/12-key-office-safety-risks-to-address-now", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/_logo_axcethr_primary.png" }, "name" : "Axcet HR Solutions" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@id" : "https://www.axcethr.com/#organization", "@type" : "Organization", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "US", "addressLocality" : "Kansas City", "addressRegion" : "MO" }, "aggregateRating" : { "@type" : "AggregateRating", "bestRating" : "5", "ratingValue" : "5", "reviewCount" : "100" }, "areaServed" : { "@type" : "Country", "name" : "United States" }, "award" : [ "IRS Certified Professional Employer Organization (CPEO)", "Award-Winning HR Solutions Provider", "SHRM Certified HR Professionals", "HRCI Certified HR Professionals" ], "contactPoint" : { "@type" : "ContactPoint", "areaServed" : "US", "availableLanguage" : "English", "contactType" : "Customer Service" }, "description" : "Award-winning Professional Employer Organization (PEO) providing comprehensive HR solutions, payroll services, employee benefits, and risk management to small and mid-sized businesses. 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Time, energy, and other resources are generally fully devoted to growing, scaling, and keeping things humming along in your core business. As a result, details like office safety can sometimes fall by the wayside. Businesses operating in industries like manufacturing, agriculture and construction have to keep safety top of mind—but companies that employ workers chiefly in office settings need to consider their safety culture, too. The numbers don’t lie: the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes annual statistics showing tens of thousands of work-related injuries and health problems suffered by office workers every year. Common Office Safety Hazards Some of the most prevalent risks to office safety include both physical hazards and preparedness gaps that can impact employee health and well-being. Ergonomic injuries Electrical issues Office fires Slips, trips and falls Lack of emergency preparedness Environmental threats Many of these risks stem from everyday office conditions, and addressing them proactively can help employers reduce preventable injuries related to common office hazards. Office Safety Guidelines In this article, I’ll review these common occupational health and safety risks one by one. I’ll also cover 12 of the most helpful office safety guidelines and tips that small businesses can implement right now, so you can protect your office workers. Office Ergonomics Set up desks and chairs properly The Cleveland Clinic reports that poor sitting posture can lead to real health damage long-term. According to Dr. Andrew Bang, “Poor posture forces you to overwork the muscles in your neck and back. Your immune system’s efforts to heal those muscles spur inflammation that, over time, can lead to arthritis in nearby joints.” Proper office ergonomics play a critical role in employee comfort, health and quality of life. Help your office workers maintain good sitting posture by making sure their chairs are adjustable and can accommodate different heights and sizes. Employees should also be instructed to maintain a neutral posture with their feet flat on the floor, their elbows at 90-degree angles and their computer screens at a comfortable eye level. Correctly position the keyboard and mouse According to the University of California, improper keyboard and mouse positioning are a common source of repetitive strain in the hands, wrists and fingers. Employees’ keyboards should be either flat or tilted slightly away from them, rather than propped up toward them on kick-stand legs. Computer mice should also be the right size for each employee. Mice that are too big can lead to over-gripping, causing discomfort in the wrists and elbows, while too-small mice lead to pinching and fatigue in the fingers and hand. RELATED: Safety Issues at Work? Here's How to Mitigate Legal Risk >> Technology-Related Office Safety Risks Modern offices rely heavily on technology, which introduces safety concerns beyond traditional desk setups. Extended screen time can contribute to digital eye strain, headaches and fatigue, while poorly managed cables, chargers, and devices may create tripping or electrical hazards. Employers can reduce technology-related risks by encouraging regular screen breaks, ensuring monitors are positioned at appropriate heights and distances, and keeping cords and charging stations organized and out of walkways. Electrical Safety Practice safe use of electrical equipment Employees should be instructed to avoid overloading outlets, and they should never plug multi-outlet bars (or “power strips”) into other multi-outlet bars. Surge protectors should always be used. Ensure proper wiring and outlet use Covering electrical outlets that are not in use can be a good workplace safety practice, particularly in environments where outlets may be exposed to dust, liquids or frequent contact. This may be more relevant in certain industries, such as retail, childcare, healthcare, food service or hospitality. Outlet covers can help prevent objects from being inserted into the outlets and reduce the risk of electrical shock. However, outlet covers are not required in all workplaces. Specific requirements depend on local electrical codes, applicable safety regulations and the conditions present in your workplace. Outlets can be covered with various types of safety devices, such as: Plug-in covers or caps Sliding plate covers Box covers Tamper-resistant receptacles Your office space should be inspected at regular intervals, and all electrical devices, including computers, printers and other larger items, should be properly maintained. Fire Safety Know fire extinguisher locations and usage Most office spaces are required to provide portable fire extinguishers. The National Fire Protection Association recommends that offices maintain one fire extinguisher for every 3,000 square feet of space. Employees should be trained on the proper use of fire extinguishers. Practice regular fire drills Double-check your compliance with all applicable fire safety laws. Depending on your business’ size and location, you may be required to have a written fire drill plan in place. One of the best ways to protect your workers in the event of an office fire is to be proactive. All employees should practice a well-vetted fire drill periodically. RELATED: How to Conduct a Fire Drill at Work >> Slip, Trip and Fall Prevention Keep walkways clear Whether your office space is new or old, potential workplace safety hazards could be in the way of your employees’ paths around the office. Check your carpeting for ripples and rips, keep cables clear from walkways, and use caution signs for wet floors and uneven grounds. All employees should be instructed to close cabinets and file drawers after using them—they should not be left open for any period of time. Employers can reduce slip and fall risks by keeping walkways clear, addressing uneven surfaces promptly, and reinforcing slip and fall prevention strategies that help employees stay safe on the job. OSHA reports that loss of traction is the leading cause of workplace slips, often due to wet or uneven surfaces. Whether ice, snow or rain are the usual culprits, employers should ensure that the outdoor and indoor paths of ingress and egress for their office space have anti-slip measures in place, including signage, salt and entry rugs. Promptly clean up spills All employees should be responsible for immediately cleaning up or alerting maintenance staff of spills as soon as they occur. Be sure to have safe and environmentally friendly cleaning supplies available and well-stocked for employees to use. Emergency Preparedness Stock first aid kits and provide training First aid kits should be stocked in a visible and accessible area, and all items in the kit should be checked against their expiration dates periodically. Develop evacuation plans and practice routes Do you have a plan in place for your response to natural disasters or other emergencies? Check your HR compliance with federal, state and local laws; develop an evacuation plan, and review and practice it with your workforce. Even in office environments, employers should ensure employees know how to report emergencies, who to contact and where to find safety information quickly. Emergency preparedness for office environments now extends beyond fire response. Employers should also consider how employees will receive instructions during severe weather events, power outages, or building access disruptions. Effective preparedness is also part of building a broader positive safety culture that supports employee engagement and reduces workplace risks overall. Clear communication plans, up-to-date emergency contact information, and defined responsibilities help employees respond calmly and safely when unexpected situations arise. Environmental Safety Ensure proper ventilation Air vents should remain open and unblocked within your office space, air ducts should be cleaned and air filters should be replaced on a regular basis. Some of the most common air pollutants in office spaces are radon, particle pollution, carbon monoxide and Legionella bacterium. Testing for and remediation of indoor pollutants is typically performed when required or when there are signs that contaminants may be present. Maintain a clean and hygienic workspace Encourage employees to maintain a clean workspace in order to prevent the spread of germs and diseases. If employees share spaces or use desks interchangeably, you may consider asking them to disinfect the surfaces they touch at the end of each workday. RELATED: Why Health and Safety Practices in the Workplace Matter >> Office Safety in Flexible and Hybrid Work Environments As more businesses adopt flexible or hybrid work arrangements, office safety considerations may shift. Employees who work in shared spaces or rotate between locations may be less familiar with emergency exits, equipment locations, or office-specific safety procedures. Employers can support safety in flexible workplaces by providing consistent safety orientation for all employees, clearly labeling emergency resources, and ensuring shared workspaces are maintained with the same safety standards as permanent offices. RELATED: Is Your Team Remote? You Still Need Workers' Comp for Remote Employees >> Need support strengthening your office safety practices? Building a culture of workplace safety goes beyond checklists. Clear policies, regular training, and proactive risk management help protect employees and reduce preventable incidents. If you have questions about office safety guidelines, training programs or broader workplace risk management, Axcet HR Solutions can provide practical guidance tailored to your organization.  Schedule a consultation >>", "author" : { "@id" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn#author", "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Sam Hihn", "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn" }, "dateCreated" : "2026-01-26", "dateModified" : "2026-09-09", "datePublished" : "2026-01-26", "description" : "When you’re running a small business, the world may be your oyster, but often, time is not on your side. Time, energy, and other resources are generally fully devoted to growing, scaling, and keeping things humming along in your core business. As a result, details like office safety can sometimes fall by the wayside. 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