Posted by
Tim Green Commercial
on 26/08/2011
When it comes to fitting out the perfect office space, there's
plenty to keep in mind. You'll want a productive, comfortable and
inspiring workplace to ensure your employees can perform at their
best. Do you go for an open plan or would individual offices be
ideal? What about common spaces such as break rooms and printing
areas?
Another critical consideration when it comes to office space
layout is occupational health and safety (OH&S) matters.
Employers are responsible for providing a safe workplace for their
workers. While hazards in an office space will be much harder to
identify than on a construction site, there are still a number of
scenarios to watch out for to ensure you're providing a safe
working environment for your staff:
Mechanical hazards - the machines in your
office space need to be safely installed. "What machines?" you ask.
Think about filing cabinets that could topple over if the top
drawers are left open or IT server systems that aren't secured
properly.
Physical hazards - ensure workstations are
ergonomically set to minimise any strain on the joints and that
chairs provide enough support for the back. Minimise glare on
computer screens and ensure that any heating elements from heaters,
photocopiers, refrigerators etc are stowed safely. If staff members
spend the majority of their day in a single fixed posture,
encourage them to move around and do some stretching at regular
intervals. Be sure that the office space has adequate heating and
cooling to maintain a comfortable temperature and that it
adequately controls for humidity levels year round.
Chemical hazards - take notice of any
fumes or vapours such as paint, solvent or airborne particles such
as dust and printer toner. Prolonged exposure to these types of
particles can cause serious health problems in the long term.
Electrical hazards - ensure all cables are
secured and that any old and damaged wiring is replaced - this is
especially important if you'll be looking at commercial real estate in an
older building.
Did you know that OH&S guidelines outline an emotional and
mentally safe work environments as well as the physical? Sexual
harassment, workplace bullying or excessively stressful workloads
could violate the Occupational Health & Safety Act 2004 - as an
employer, you have a duty of care to your staff that puts you in
charge. Whether you're leasing or buying
commercial property for your business, ensure that you
follow the legal guidelines that are set out by the OH&S Act
and are also providing your employees with a comfortable and
productive workplace so they can get on with their tasks.
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This article is brought to you by Tim Green Commercial. Find
your next commercial property for sale or lease at Tim Green
Commercial - the experts on finding great office space in Sydney
CBD and surrounds.
About the Tim Green Commercial
Tim Green Commercial is a boutique Commercial Real Estate Agency
in the Sydney CBD with listings for offices, retail shops and
cafes, and investment properties for sale and lease. Visit their
website for more information.