Home working tips

Welcome to this month's safety newsletter. The idea of these newsletters is to raise safety awareness and to get you involved. This month’s topic is about home working.

Top tips for home working
Conduct a risk assessment. Think about your work area and the hazards associated with it. A hazard is something with the potential to cause harm.

One possible hazard is social isolation. Some home workers may experience psychological stress due to working in isolation and with limited social contact. This can lead to a lack of self-confidence. Keep in touch with others via regular communication with colleagues or clients via phone or, better still, face to face contact.

Take regular breaks from their work; for instance, it can be helpful to go for a walk, or visit the local shop, for some interaction with other people.
Another hazard to consider at home is work equipment. Make sure the equipment provided is in good working order and is suitable for its intended purpose.

Check your work equipment for faults, issues and keep it in good working condition. If in doubt report it. Electrical Equipment needs to be checked. Check electrical equipment is not damaged. Check leads and plugs for wear and tear. Ensure there are no trailing cables.

Check for slips trips and falling hazards. A home worker may slip, trip or fall due to files, boxes and trailing wires that are on the floor; items may also fall from shelving resulting in injuries. Always keep your work area tidy. Ensure lighting levels are good.

Computers/ Display Screen Equipment can be a health hazard. Ensure that laptops and PCs are not over used! Construct your work area to suit you and not the other way around. It is all about good ergonomics. Make sure you take regular brakes, do not sit in front of the screen for hours on end!

Be prepared for accidents and make sure you have a fully stocked first aid kit.

Think fire prevention and what to do in the event of fire. If you are working at home invest in a fire extinguisher (dry powder is a good all rounder) and smoke detectors. Think about your means of escape.

Related documents/ further reading:
For more information go to: http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg226.pdf

www.she.ltd.uk