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Safety Guideline for The Home Workspace safetyguidelines.doc

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Safety Guideline for
The Home Workspace

Source http://www.telework.gov/documents/tw_man03/appd_j.asp

Participating employees may use the following guidelines to assist them in a survey of the overall
safety and adequacy of their alternate worksite. The following are only recommendations, and do not
encompass every situation that may be encountered. Employees are encouraged to obtain professional
assistance with issues concerning appropriate electrical service and circuit capacity for residential
worksites.
1.
Develop and practice a fire evacuation plan for use in the event of an emergency.
2.
Check your smoke detectors regularly and replace batteries once a year.
3.
Always have a working fire extinguisher conveniently located in your home, and check the
charge regularly.
4.
Computers are heavy. Always place them on sturdy, level, well maintained furniture.
5.
Choose office chairs that provide good supporting backrests and allow adjustments to fit you
comfortably.
6.
Locate your computer to eliminate noticeable glare from windows and lighting. Place the
computer monitor at a height which is comfortable and does not produce neck or back strain.
Locate computer keyboards at heights that do not cause wrist strain or place the keyboard on
an adjustable surface.
7.
Install sufficient lighting in locations to reduce glare on the work surface.
8.
Arrange file cabinets so that opened drawers do not block aisles.
9.
Be sure to leave aisle space, where possible, to reduce tripping hazards.
10.
Always make sure electrical equipment is connected to grounded outlets.
11.
Avoid fire hazards by never overloading electrical circuits.
12.
Inspect and repair carpeting with frayed edges or loose seams. Avoid using throw rugs that
can cause tripping hazards in your workspace.
13.
Locate computers, phones, and other electrical equipment in a manner that keeps power cords
out of walkways.
14.
Always power down computers after the workday is over and always turn off all electrical
equipment during thunderstorms.
15.
Keep your work area clean and avoid clutter which can cause fire and tripping hazards.
16.
Do not allow non-Government employees to operate or repair Government-owned equipment.
17.
Always keep Government files and information in a secure place and do not advertise your
home office to strangers.
18.
Always use proper lifting techniques when moving or lifting heavy equipment and furniture.
19.
Always report accidents and injuries immediately to your supervisor.