Are Holiday Decorations a Workplace Hazard?

 Posted on December 11, 2024 in Workplace Injuries

Holiday decorations can create a cozy feeling that makes you feel safer in your workplace. However, failing to follow safe decorating guidelines can make some workplaces more dangerous. While having the workplace decorated might be good for morale, it may increase the chances of someone getting hurt at work. Generally, decorations should not be placed on factory floors, near heavy machinery, or anywhere they might get in the way of workers doing their jobs. If you are injured in a workplace accident, such as a fire or trip-and-fall, you might be entitled to compensation. An experienced Gilroy, CA workers’ compensation attorney can help you take legal action after a workplace injury.

Holiday Decorations May Be a Fire Hazard in Workplaces

Every year, people experience fires caused by holiday lights. String lights can wear out after years of use and may become damaged, which can lead to spontaneous electrical fires. Decorations that light up should be kept away from any highly flammable materials or combustible goods that are stored in the workplace.

Wall-hanging decorations like wreaths and freestanding decorations like Christmas trees can also exacerbate fires and make evacuation more difficult. Items like banners or figurines with fabric clothing can catch fire and increase the danger for anyone trying to follow your company’s fire safety plan to leave the building.

Decorations as Tripping Hazards 

Decorations that are badly placed can become a tripping hazard, especially in environments like warehouses or grocery stores where people may be walking around carrying boxes or products. Power cords for decorations that light up or move can also become a tripping hazard even in a well-lit office environment. Any power cords should be well-secured to the floor or wall using tape or a cord cover. Any decorations that could create a tripping hazard for employees or visitors should be placed in out-of-the-way areas.

Safely Decorating the Workplace 

In general, decorations should not be placed in work areas, especially in workplaces like factories, warehouses, and hospitals where employees may be rushing around the building. It is normally safer to place decorations in spaces like the break room, the lobby, or administrative offices. The safest place to decorate is the outside of the building. Outdoor decorations can achieve the same morale boost indoor decorations might offer but will never be in the way of an employee trying to do his or her job.

Contact a Gilroy, CA Workers' Compensation Attorney

Cramer + Martinez is committed to helping injured workers recover the compensation they are entitled to. Our dedicated Santa Clara County workers’ compensation lawyers can help if you were hurt in a workplace fire or tripping accident of any type. Contact us at 408-848-1113 for a complimentary consultation.