Disorganized Offices Can Create Safety Hazards Five tips on how to clean up your act and turn a messy office into a safe haven.

Is a disorganized office putting you in danger? Piles of paper,dangling cords and stacks of newspapers may seem harmless, but arethey really? Here are five ways to increase your home office safety(and get better organized, too).

1. Store magazines, newsletters and other reading material instacking bins or crates that stack on the floor. By keepingthis information in one place, you'll save time looking for theinformation you need. Safety reason: You won't trip overmagazines and risk breaking a limb.

2. Set up your office logically. Your fax supplies shouldbe near your fax machine, computer manuals near your computer andyour electronic equipment on an ergonomically correct computerworkstation. Leave plenty of room for extra chairs if clients visityour office, and avoid blocking space heaters and vents withfurniture. Safety reason: Crowding is a fire hazard, bruise-inducerand stress-inducer due to lack of space. Blocked space heaters andeven halogen lamps can overheat and cause a fire. Finally, poor aircirculation due to blocked vents can make you sick.

3. Create a "work circle" while sitting at yourdesk or computer workstation. Within that circle, keepfrequently used equipment and supplies. Anything used lessfrequently than once a week should be stored on a secondary worksurface or a nearby shelf. Safety reason: You'll avoidstraining your back and muscles reaching for frequently useditems.

4. Use the right products for the right tasks. A wristrest with sections for pens, pencils and other supplies keepseverything you use often within reach and reduces the likelihood ofcarpal tunnel syndrome. Use an ergonomically correct chair and adesk that's at the right height for your keyboard. Safetyreason: You'll avoid fatigue and repetitive stress injuries,and you'll keep your productivity high.

5. Bundle your computer, printer and other electronic cordswith a strong, plastic tie, or place them inside a long tube with aslit cut lengthwise. If you move your equipment often, usecolored stickers to match one end of the cord to the slot where itbelongs on your CPU. Safety reason: You won't trip over loosecords.