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It'd be a shame to injure yourself in a random filing accident If a file cabinet is not strongly constructed, it will not withstand the daily abuse of filing, retrieving files, and continuous opening and closing of drawers. Check out the suspension system of the unit - drawers should open and close smoothly on ball-bearing suspension and be able to withstand abuse from heavy papers and folders. The materials that make up the file cabinet should be strong to create a solid, heavy piece that will not lend itself to office mishaps that cause both frustration and injury. |
Stability problems
It happens often: open a drawer to retrieve a document, then open a second drawer and the file cabinet tips forward. Safety features like locking devices and counterweighted drawers can keep filing cabinets from tipping. Lightweight filing cabinets can tip if you open a heavily packed drawer and the unit is not restrained. Placing the back of the cabinet against the wall will minimize this problem. Make sure file cabinets are placed on a level surface so drawers do not slide open on their own. You may need to insert wedges to even the floor. Distribute the weight evenly among the drawers -- heavy items in top drawers and minimum weight in lower drawers is an accident waiting to happen.
Pains and strains
Storing large or heavy items so that retrieving them means reaching above shoulder height or below knee level can cause muscle injuries. Store items that you frequently access within comfortable reach. Place file cabinets in easy access areas so there is no need to twist in awkward positions to reach the contents of their drawers. Routinely clean out file cabinets to avoid strains caused by forcing files in and out of overstuffed drawers. Place file cabinets in an unobstructed area so open drawers do not cause a hazard to anyone walking by.
