You’ve finally got your business up and running. The business cards are flying out in swathes, your desk plant is alive and well and you’re feeling the excitement now more than ever. Now is an easy time to forget about one of the most important elements of running a business, safety! We’re not talking about the boring stuff like testing your fire alarms, we want to point out the things that most people don’t even realise are an issue. Here are 7 things you probably didn’t think about when you first stepped into your business space!
Tip 1: Beware the Chair!
It’s extremely important to invest in getting decent chairs for your office or business space. Your new chair might be comfortable, but is it plotting a fall? Make sure to avoid any nasty chair-collapsing incidents by getting good seating!
Tip 2: Cable Management: Save the Trips For Annual Leave
Use Velcro or zip-ties to manage your cables properly and don’t let them trail all over the floor. One little trip can put a whole business day on hold.
Tip 3: Plants Are Friends – Until They’re Tripping Hazards
A jungle vibe is great, but let’s not make it an obstacle course! Too many or poorly placed plants can be a trip hazard or risk a soil-on-the-floor nightmare. Plants are a brilliant addition to any workspace, but be careful with where they are placed to avoid any incidents.
Tip 4: Light Up Responsibly
Good lighting is a productivity boost, but using too many lamps or the wrong bulbs can lead to overheating. Keep bulbs compatible with the fixture’s wattage. Let your ideas shine bright – but safely!
Tip 5: Snack Time Safety: Keep Food Out of the Workspace
Sometimes it’s necessary to eat at your desk, if you’re in a big rush or don’t have a break room, but it’s important that we keep it to a minimum. Crumbs and spills on the desk are an excellent way to end up damaging your electronics or with a huge pest problem!
Tip 6: Mind the Paper Pile-Up
Big piles of paper are a staple in movies and TV shows about offices, but sometimes it’s better to avoid them. Don’t allow any stacks of paper to sit next to hot plug sockets, extension leads or heaters. We’re sure you’re pretty keen on the office without it having burnt to the ground.
Tip 7: Check Your Extension Cables
Extension cables are convenient, but overloading them can lead to overheating. One per plug socket is ideal, and they shouldn’t be used with high-power items like heaters. Fire is probably the main concern when you’re thinking about keeping your business space safe, and it’s so easy to avoid.
Making sure your business space is safe is a great way to ensure that you and everybody around you feel comfortable, and actually improves productivity. You want yourself and your team to feel relaxed! Keep these tips on hand as you go forth into your business journey! Running a business is hard enough – let’s keep the surprises to a minimum, shall we?
