Office WHS Checklist

Quick answer: Office workplaces must manage ergonomic hazards, electrical safety, trip and fall risks, lighting, first aid, emergency procedures, manual handling, psychosocial hazards, and the condition of amenities. Use the checklist below to identify gaps in your office WHS arrangements.

Last reviewed: June 2026 by the BlueSafe Technical Team. Reflects current Model WHS Act and Regulations.

Office workplaces are often underestimated when it comes to work health and safety. Because there is no heavy machinery or work at height, it is easy to assume compliance takes care of itself. It does not.

Musculoskeletal injuries from poor workstation setup, slips and trips from unsecured cables, electrical fires from overloaded power boards, and psychological injuries from unmanaged workloads are all real and common in office environments. As a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU), your duty of care applies fully to your office — the hazards are just different.

This checklist groups the key WHS obligations for a typical office workplace into practical, actionable items. Work through each section and tick off what is in place. Any unchecked item represents a gap worth addressing.

For related guidance, see our Manual Handling Guide and our overview of Psychosocial Hazards: Employer Obligations.

1. Ergonomic Workstation Setup

Poor workstation setup is the leading cause of injury in office environments. Musculoskeletal disorders develop gradually and are often not reported until they are serious.

Each worker has a workstation that has been individually assessed or set up according to ergonomic principles (monitor height, chair height, keyboard and mouse position).
Monitors are positioned at approximately arm's length, with the top of the screen at or just below eye level.
Chairs are height-adjustable and provide adequate lumbar support; footrests are available for workers who need them.
Workers are not required to sustain awkward postures for extended periods — tasks are varied and breaks are encouraged.
Workers who use laptops as their primary workstation have access to a docking station, external monitor, or laptop riser to avoid prolonged neck flexion.
Workers have been provided with information on correct workstation setup and the importance of regular movement breaks.
A process is in place for workers to request an ergonomic assessment or adjustments (e.g. sit-stand desks, ergonomic mice, document holders).
Workstation assessments are reviewed when a worker reports discomfort, changes role, or returns from an injury.

2. Electrical Safety and Test and Tag

Faulty or poorly maintained electrical equipment is a leading cause of workplace fires and electrical injuries.

All portable electrical appliances used in the office (computers, monitors, extension leads, desk fans, phone chargers, kettles, microwaves) have been identified.
Portable electrical equipment is inspected and tested (test and tag) by a competent person at intervals consistent with state or territory requirements.
Test and tag records (or tags on equipment) are current and accessible.
Damaged, frayed, or suspect electrical leads and appliances are taken out of service immediately and tagged for repair or disposal.
Power boards are not daisy-chained (one power board plugged into another).
Power boards are not overloaded; high-draw appliances (e.g. kettles, microwave ovens) are plugged directly into wall sockets where practicable.
Electrical switchboards and circuit breakers are accessible and unobstructed.
Workers know who to contact if they identify a faulty electrical item.

3. Trip Hazards and Cable Management

Slips, trips, and falls are consistently among the most common workplace injuries — and most are preventable.

Power and data cables are routed through cable management solutions (cable trays, conduit, cord covers) and are not crossing walkways or lying loose on the floor.
Walkways, corridors, and thoroughfares are clear of boxes, bags, equipment, and other obstructions at all times.
Floor surfaces are in good condition — no lifting carpet edges, cracked tiles, uneven flooring, or damaged anti-fatigue matting.
Spills are cleaned up promptly; wet floor signage is readily available and used.
Mats and rugs are secured or have non-slip backing.
Fire exits, emergency egress routes, and stairwells are clear and unobstructed at all times.
There are no items stored in corridors, on stair landings, or in front of emergency equipment (extinguishers, hose reels, first aid kits, AEDs).

4. Lighting

Inadequate lighting contributes to eye strain, headaches, poor posture, and increased risk of accidents.

General lighting levels are adequate for the work being carried out — workstations, corridors, stairwells, and amenities are all sufficiently lit.
Faulty or flickering lights are reported and replaced promptly.
Workstations are positioned to minimise glare on screens from windows or overhead lights; blinds or screen filters are available where needed.
Emergency lighting is installed and tested in accordance with the relevant Australian Standard (AS/NZS 2293).
Stairwells, car parks, and external access areas are adequately lit, particularly for workers who start early or finish late.

5. First Aid

A first aid kit is provided in an accessible, clearly signed location; the kit contents comply with the relevant code of practice for a low-risk workplace.
The kit is inspected and restocked regularly, with inspection dates recorded.
At least one worker with a current first aid certificate (e.g. HLTAID011 or equivalent) is available during all working hours, including when the primary first aider is on leave.
All workers know the location of the first aid kit and who the nominated first aider is.
First aid contact information and the location of the nearest hospital or medical centre are displayed.
If a defibrillator (AED) is provided, it is maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's requirements and workers know its location.

6. Emergency Procedures and Evacuation

A written emergency plan is in place, covering fire, medical emergencies, and other foreseeable emergencies.
Evacuation diagrams are displayed throughout the office in accordance with Australian Standard AS 3745.
Emergency assembly areas are designated, clearly marked, and known to all workers and visitors.
Emergency wardens have been appointed and trained in their roles.
Emergency contact numbers are posted in a prominent location (000, poisons information 13 11 26, building management, nearest hospital).
Evacuation drills are conducted at least annually and records of drills (date, participants, outcomes) are kept.
The emergency plan and warden list are reviewed and updated after any changes to the office layout, tenancy, or personnel.
Visitors and contractors are briefed on emergency procedures on arrival (or via a sign-in process that includes this information).

7. Amenities

Under the WHS Regulations, PCBUs must provide adequate amenities for the number of workers at the workplace.

Toilet facilities are adequate in number for the workers on site and are maintained in a clean and hygienic condition.
Handwashing facilities with soap and drying provisions are available in or adjacent to toilet facilities and in meal preparation areas.
A suitable area for workers to eat meals is provided — separate from any areas where hazardous substances are handled or stored.
Drinking water (cold) is accessible to all workers.
Amenities are accessible to workers with a disability where this is reasonably practicable.
Kitchen appliances (microwaves, kettles, refrigerators) are maintained in a clean and serviceable condition.

8. Manual Handling (Deliveries and Storage)

Office workers regularly handle deliveries, move boxes, and retrieve items from shelving — all of which carry manual handling risks.

Workers have been trained in safe manual handling techniques, including correct lifting posture and the use of mechanical aids where available. See our Manual Handling Guide for what to cover.
Heavy or bulky deliveries are handled by two or more workers or with a trolley; workers are not expected to carry heavy items alone.
Storage areas are organised so that heavier items are stored at waist height where practicable — not above shoulder height or at floor level where repeated bending is required.
Shelving and storage racking is secured to walls or otherwise stabilised against tipping.
Maximum load limits are clearly labelled on shelving.
Step stools or ladders are available and used for items stored at height — workers are not standing on chairs or other improvised platforms.
The process for receiving large or heavy deliveries is documented and workers know what is expected.

9. Psychosocial Hazards and Workload

Psychosocial hazards are work-related risks to psychological health. They are as legally significant as physical hazards. See our guide on Psychosocial Hazards: Employer Obligations for a full breakdown of what is required.

Psychosocial hazards relevant to the office environment have been identified — this may include excessive workload, poor role clarity, lack of supervisor support, workplace bullying and harassment, high job demands with low control, and isolation (including for remote workers).
A risk assessment of psychosocial hazards has been conducted and controls are in place.
Workers have access to a clear process for reporting workplace bullying, harassment, or concerns about workload.
The business has a Workplace Bullying and Harassment Policy that is accessible to all workers.
Managers have been trained to recognise signs of psychological distress and to respond appropriately.
Workloads are reviewed regularly — particularly after restructures, staff departures, or increased business demand.
An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) or equivalent support mechanism is in place and workers know how to access it.
Remote or hybrid workers are not excluded from consultation, support, or access to safety resources.

10. Walkways and Clear Pathways

All primary walkways and thoroughfares are kept clear of stored items, equipment, and personal belongings.
Emergency exit routes and doors are clearly marked, unobstructed, and can be opened from the inside without a key.
Fire doors are not propped open with wedges or other objects (unless fitted with approved hold-open devices linked to the fire alarm).
Signage for exits, fire equipment, first aid, and emergency assembly points is visible, in good condition, and not obscured.
Outdoor walkways, car parks, and building entry points are maintained and free of hazards (potholes, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, slippery surfaces).

11. Storage and Shelving

Storage areas and storerooms are tidy, well-lit, and organised.
Shelving is rated for its intended load and is not overloaded.
Freestanding shelving units are anchored to walls or braced against toppling.
Items are not stored on top of lockers, cabinets, or shelving in a way that creates a falling object risk.
Filing cabinets are not loaded in a way that makes them top-heavy or likely to tip (e.g. multiple drawers fully extended at once); anti-tip devices are fitted where available.
Hazardous substances stored in the office (cleaning products, printer toner, etc.) are stored in a manner consistent with their Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and relevant SDS are on file.

Frequently asked questions

Are offices considered low-risk workplaces under WHS law?

Not automatically. While offices are generally lower risk than construction sites or manufacturing facilities, they carry real hazards including musculoskeletal injuries from poor ergonomics, electrical risks, trip and fall hazards, fire and evacuation risks, and psychosocial hazards such as work-related stress and bullying. PCBUs must manage all reasonably foreseeable risks regardless of industry.

Is test and tag required in an office?

Test and tag requirements vary by state and territory. In most jurisdictions, portable electrical equipment used in a workplace must be regularly inspected and tested by a competent person. Office environments are not exempt. Check your state regulator's requirements — in many jurisdictions the testing interval for office equipment is 5 years, but shorter intervals apply to equipment in higher-risk environments or equipment that is frequently moved or handled.

How many first aiders does an office need?

The number of first aiders required depends on your workplace's risk level, the number of workers, and the proximity to emergency services. The WHS Regulations require PCBUs to provide first aid equipment and ensure workers can access first aiders. Safe Work Australia's First Aid in the Workplace Code of Practice provides guidance on numbers — a general-purpose office of fewer than 25 workers in a metropolitan area typically requires at least one person with a current first aid certificate.

What are psychosocial hazards and do they apply to offices?

Psychosocial hazards are aspects of work design, the work environment, and workplace interactions that can harm workers' psychological health. They very much apply to office environments and include excessive workload, poor role clarity, lack of support, workplace bullying and harassment, and remote or isolated work. Under the WHS Act, PCBUs must manage psychosocial risks just as they manage physical hazards. Most jurisdictions now have specific regulations or codes of practice dealing with psychosocial hazards.

Get your office WHS documents sorted

A checklist identifies the gaps — a WHS Management System fills them. Blue Safe Online provides ready-to-use, regulator-aligned WHS documents and tools built for Australian workplaces of all sizes.

Ready to close the gaps? Explore Blue Safe Online.

This article is general information only and does not constitute legal advice. WHS laws vary between states and territories. Always confirm current requirements with your relevant state or territory WHS regulator or seek independent legal advice for your specific situation.