MACQUARIE UNIVERSITY
Division of Information and Communication Sciences
Working from Home - OHS Checklist
The following checklist provides guidance on completing an OHS risk assessment when working from home.

Most of the work undertaken at home will be clerical or computer based. Refer to the University and Division policy and guidelines on Office Ergonomics when considering this type of work, both at home and on University premises. 

The Physical Activity Required 
•	Repetitive actions are not continued for long periods without appropriate breaks.
•	Breaks involve stretching and changing of posture, and possibly alternating activity.
•	Posture is comfortable and in accordance with the University guidelines. 
•	Any lifting, pushing, or carrying type task is well within the physical capacity of the person. 
•	Trolleys or other mechanisms are used for moving heavy and awkward items.

The Work Environment 
•	Level of illumination and location of lighting fixtures are suited to the activity. Note: lighting level should be sufficient for visual tasks to be completed without eye strain. Greater illumination is generally needed for very fine visual tasks. Natural and artificial light sources should not create glare via reflection on the computer screen or working surface. 
•	Worker enjoys sufficient ventilation and thermal comfort, regardless of the season.
•	Location, height and other physical characteristics of furniture and computer are suited to the task and take into consideration other factors eg., egress routes, direction of light source.
•	Walkways are clear of clutter and trip hazards such as trailing electrical cords. The work area is segregated from other hazards in the home eg., hot cooking surfaces in the kitchen. 

Emergency egress 
•	Path to the exit is reasonably direct.
•	Path to the exit is sufficiently wide and free of trip hazards and obstructions to allow unimpeded passage. 

The Nature of the Hazard itself 
•	Security is sufficient to prevent unauthorised entry by intruders. 
•	When working in isolation at home, a “call-in” procedure has been established to periodically confirm with the Department that the home worker has not been injured.
Electrical 
•	Power outlets are not overloaded with double adapters and power boards. 
•	Earth leakage circuit protection is in place for work related equipment. 
•	Electrical equipment used for work is properly tagged and tested in accordance with Division practice.

The Individual Involved 
•	The worker’s fitness and health are suited to the task to be undertaken.
•	Any special needs to ensure health and safety are accommodated. 

Other 
•	Telephone or other suitable devices are readily available to allow effective communication in emergency situations.
•	Emergency contact numbers and details are known ie., 000 for fire, ambulance or police, specific numbers for University contacts.
•	First Aid supplies are available (Type C kit minimum requirement, to be supplied by the Department)
•	Smoke detectors are installed in the work area and properly maintained to provide early warning of fire. 
•	A properly maintained dry-chemical or carbon dioxide fire extinguisher is on-hand and the home worker is trained how to use this equipment to extinguish minor fires. 
•	Incidents are reported promptly to the supervisor using the University’s Incident report form. 
 
Safety Equipment Checklist 
•	First-aid kit, Type C or better.
•	Fire extinguisher, dry chemical or carbon dioxide. 
•	Smoke detector, properly serviced. 

Workstation Checklist

Chair
•	Seat height is adjusted so that arms and forearms are at right angles or slightly greater and forearms and hands form straight lines when resting on the keyboard.
•	Feet are flat on the floor or on a footrest so that knees are bent at right angles and thighs are horizontal to floor.
•	Seat back is adjusted to support the lumbar curve of the low back.
•	Seat pan tilt is adjusted so hips and tops of thighs are at right angles or slightly greater.
•	Armrests are out of the way while typing, but may provide support during other activities (i.e. phone use, meetings, etc.).

Keyboard and Mouse
•	Keyboard-to-user distance allows user to relax shoulders with elbows hanging close to body. 
•	Keyboard position is flat.
•	Mouse-to-user distance - mouse is directly next to the keyboard.
•	Mouse is on the same level as the keyboard.

Monitor
•	Monitor height is adjusted so top of screen is at or slightly lower than eye level (may need to be lower where bifocals are used).
•	Viewing distance is approximately arm’s distance away (350 - 750 mm).
•	Monitor and keyboard are placed directly and symetrically in front of user.
•	Monitor is positioned to avoid glare (perpendicular to window or strong light source)

Work Practices
•	Breaks are taken every 30mins of keyboarding and standing at least once per hour.
•	Keyboarding posture wrists are kept straight and not supported on any surface while typing
•	Sitting posture is upright or slightly reclined posture, maintaining slight hollow in lower back.
•	Hand is used to hold telephone receiver or headset is worn (no cradling).
•	Long periods of continuous computer use are broken up by performing other tasks.

For further information see 

Workcover Working from Home: A Guide to occupational health and safety rehabilitation and workers compensation requirements  
http://www.workcover.nsw.gov.au/Publications/OHS/RiskManagement/workingfromhome.htm

For further information see the university online office ergonomics induction