Telecommuting Home Safety Guidelines
TELECOMMUTER’S HOME SAFETY GUIDELINES
- Maintain all stairways clear of objects that could cause a person to trip.
- Stairways should have a firmly anchored handrail.
- All stairways should be well lighted.
- All stair coverings should be securely anchored.
- Have a safe stepladder for home use.
- Make sure all scatter rugs are skid-proof and laying flat and that all carpets are securely anchored.
- All entranceways, exits, halls, and walks should be well lighted.
- Wear proper footwear to prevent slips, trips, falls, and other fall injuries.
- Place all lamp, extension and telephone cords out of traffic areas.
- Chairs, tables, and desks should be safe to use and be ergonomically correct.
- All-electric receptacles should be the three-prong grounded type.
- Know how to turn off the electrical, water and gas sources to your home.
- All fuses should be of the correct amperage.
- Label the fuses or circuit breakers to identify the outlets and appliances they protect.
- All light switches should work correctly.
- All electrical appliances and their cords should be Underwriters Laboratories (UL) approved.
- Unplug small electrical appliances such as hair dryers, shavers, electric knives, coffeepots, etc. when not in use.
- Keep the area around the furnace and hot water heater clear of boxes and other combustible materials.
- Ensure that portable heaters are in good condition; provide adequate ventilation, and position them in a safe location away from flammable materials.
- Develop and practice with your family a fire escape plan for your home.
- Have a charged ABC fire extinguisher of at least the 2 1/2-pound size conveniently located in your home. Install smoke alarms throughout your home and inspect regularly for proper functioning.
- Check your power cords and replace those that are damaged.
- Make sure that any extension cords you are using for tools and appliances are the right capacity.
- Have a flashlight for emergencies.
- Make sure that all your doors and windows closed and latch properly; and that all exterior doors are secured with a deadbolt.
- Maintain a well-stocked first aid kit for emergencies.
- Post emergency numbers by all telephones.
- Place all portable fans and heaters where they can’t be knocked over. Keep them at least three feet from furnishings and flammable materials.
- Keep all paint; paint thinner, pesticides, and gasoline stored out of the house and away from heat and other ignition sources.
- Control mildew through adequate air circulation and humidity control.
- Obtain assistance for heavy lifting and utilize safe lifting techniques.
I have read and understood the Safety Guidelines and will comply with the recommendations.