HAMILTON, ON (May 28, 2008) – The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) has released a pocket guide dealing with office-specific health & safety issues. Although offices may be considered to be relatively clean, safe and risk free, office workers account for a significant number of workers’ compensation claims in Canada. The Office Health & Safety Guide shows workers, HR professionals and health and safety representatives how to identify hazards in an office and keep workers safe.

The illustrated, spiral-bound handbook covers the basic rules of workplace health and safety, including tips for new employees and supervisors as well as how to design and implement health and safety policies and programs. Information is provided on workplace inspections, task analysis, safety procedures, accident investigations, and emergency preparedness. The guide offers an introduction to office ergonomics and explains chemical hazards, indoor air quality, and the dangers of mould, slips, trips, falls and other common hazards that can affect office workers.

The Office Health & Safety Guide is 142 pages of clear-language text, charts, diagrams and checklists. It can be used to get a health and safety program started or to enhance existing training and education programs. 

CCOHS publications are unique in that they are developed by experts in the field, and reviewed by representatives from labour, employers and government to ensure the content and approach are unbiased and credible.

For further information contact:
Eleanor Westwood
Manager of Communications
CCOHS
905.572.2981 X4408
eleanorw@ccohs.ca