During the current global pandemic and with social distancing orders in place, working from home has now become the norm. Even those who may never have had an opportunity to connect remotely from home for work before, have now found themselves working from home every single day. There are many perks to being home instead of commuting to work, but there are also risks. While you might not be in the office, you’re still susceptible to tripping hazards, to posture and repetitive motion industries.
OSHA has released recommendations on how to work from home safely as we all adjust to this new way of living. Here is a rundown of the basics.
Ergonomics
If you’ve never heard this term before, it relates to how your workstation is set-up and the posture you keep while doing your work for hours of the day. Improper set height, wrist placement on a keyboard and even lighting, can all have an adverse impact on you over time. To combat this, ergonomics takes these elements into consideration and creates a well balanced workstation design to avoid strain or injury.
Onsite Safety
The same dangers present in an office space, can also become a problem while you’re sitting at home working. In many cases, the risks may also increase with distractions happening. Once you are aware of these hazards you need a plan to combat them. For example, never lay loose cords and wires across the floor where someone could trip and get hurt. Always ensure your smoke detectors are working. Do not leave food unattended on the stove or think you will remember it once you get into reading emails.
First Aid Supplies
You will always need emergency supplies to treat an injury. Now that you’re home more, it makes sense to stock up your home first aid kit. Keep a good amount of bandages, gauze and ointments to care for a wound of other emergency.