Working from home has become the new normal for many people. While there are many benefits related to working from home, it’s important to take steps to ensure you stay safe while doing so.
You can find yourself being injured from bad ergonimics or lack of fire and chemical safety. Depending on what you work with from home you need to be more or less concerned with specific potential safety hazards.
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when working from home.
Working from home has become more popular in recent years as technology has made it easier to connect with colleagues and clients online. And, of course, a certain worldwide disease kickstarted this trend as well. However, there are potential safety hazards to be aware of when working from home.
For example, if you work from home, you may be using electrical equipment that is not up to code or that is not properly grounded. This can lead to fires or shocks. Additionally, if you have young children at home, they may be tempted to play with your office equipment or climb on furniture in your home office. This could lead to serious injuries to them.
To stay safe while working from home, make sure your electrical equipment is up to code and properly grounded. Keep an eye on young children if they are in the same room as you are working. And finally, create a safe and comfortable workspace that meets all of your needs.
It greatly differs depending on what you actually work with from home. If most of what you do is to sit by a computer, you will, of course, not be that exposed to safety hazards as opposed if you work with chemicals etc.
Fire safety tips when working from home
As more and more people are working from home, it’s important to take precautions to prevent fires. As should you always do, working from home or not.
In general, try to keep flammable materials away from heat sources, such as candles, stoves, and radiators. Especially electrical. Make sure your smoke detectors are working and test them regularly. And have a plan in place in case of fire.
Here are some tips to keep you and your family safe:
- Keep all flammable materials, like paper and lint, away from heat sources like space heaters and candles.
- Don’t leave cooking food unattended – if you have to step away, turn off the stove or oven.
- Keep a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible place.
- Have an evacuation plan in case of a fire – know two ways out of every room and make sure everyone in the family knows the plan.
- Practice your evacuation plan regularly.
- Never use extension cords with space heaters or other high-wattage appliances.
- Keep electrical outlets and cords free of clutter and never overload them.
Ergonomic safety tips: Take breaks and be aware of your posture
These days, a lot of people work from home. While this can be a great perk, it can also take a toll on your body if you don’t have an ergonomic setup. If your home office is properly decorated with comfortable and functional furniture, your body can pay the price.
Here are a few tips to help you stay comfortable and productive while working from home.
Make sure your chair provides good support for your back and that your desk is at the proper height. Back and neck pain can follow by sitting in a bad chair in a bad position. If you don’t have a dedicated office space, set up your workstation in a well-lit area of your home where you can sit up straight with your feet flat on the floor.
Speaking of light, lighting in your home office is really important too. Your eyes and head can ache by working in a bad light all day long, although not an ergonomic hazard.
Also, take frequent breaks to move around and stretch. Get up at least once every hour to walk around or do some simple exercises. And try to avoid working for more than two hours at a time without a break. You can surely feel it in your body if you sit down for 8-10 hours straight for an entire day.
Electrical safety tips for working from home
Working from home has become the new normal for many people. But before you start your work day, there are a few things you need to do to make sure your home office is electrically safe and actually suited for the new normal.
First, take a look at your wiring. If you have old, frayed, or exposed wires, they need to be replaced. Not only are they a fire hazard, but they can also give you an electric shock.
Next, check all of your cords and make sure they’re in good condition. Look for any cracks or damage and replace them if necessary. Also, make sure that cords are not running under carpets or furniture where they can be damaged.
Finally, always unplug appliances when you’re not using them. Even if they’re turned off, appliances can still use electricity when they’re plugged in.
This is both and electrical hazard and can be quite expensive.
Chemical safety: For you who do not only sit by a computer at home
When working from home, it is important to be aware of the potential hazards that chemicals can pose. By taking some simple precautions, you can minimize the risks to your health and safety.
Be sure to keep all chemicals in their original containers and clearly labeled. When using chemicals, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure there is adequate ventilation, and avoid inhaling fumes or vapors.
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment when using or handling chemicals. This may include gloves, eye protection, and a respirator. Be sure to wash thoroughly after any exposure to chemicals.
By following these simple guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and healthy work environment at home.
Personal safety tips when working at home
When working from home you need not only focus on yourself but also your personal belongings. If you have some very valuable working valuables, you need to carefully consider how to store them.
First, keep all valuables out of sight. If possible, put them in a safe or locked drawer. If not, at least make sure they are not visible from any windows.
Second, be aware of who is coming and going from your home. If you have deliveries, make sure they are left in a secure spot and that you know who will be picking them up.
Finally, trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to call the police or take other precautions to ensure your safety.
My name is Frederik
I am a passionate marketeer who loves the freedom that comes with working from home whenever I choose to do so.
I love getting nerdy with every single detail about making everything related to my home just a tiny bit better.
That is what motivates me to write about home stuff on this blog.