Coworking spaces are booming. They’re flexible, community-driven, and perfect for freelancers, startups, and remote workers looking to ditch the home office. But while they offer plenty of perks, safety is often overlooked in these shared environments. Just because a space looks modern doesn’t mean it’s free from hazards.
In fact, coworking spaces can pose unique safety challenges that traditional offices don’t. With people from different companies sharing the same space, who’s responsible when something goes wrong? The short answer: it depends—but knowing the common risks and how to avoid them can save you a lot of trouble.
Slip, Trip, and Fall Hazards
According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), slips, trips, and falls are the most common cause of workplace injuries in the UK, accounting for around 30% of all non-fatal workplace injuries. In coworking spaces, the risk can be even higher due to the constant foot traffic and shared responsibilities.
Wet floors near kitchenettes, bags left in walkways, or exposed wires under desks are all accidents waiting to happen. And when multiple users treat the space as their own—but without clear oversight—it’s easy for these hazards to go unnoticed.
If you’re injured in a coworking space, it’s important to know your legal rights after a workplace accident. The situation can get murky since you’re technically not employed by the space—but you still have rights if the environment was unsafe.
Ergonomic Injuries
Not every injury is dramatic. One of the most common issues in coworking spaces is repetitive strain or posture-related pain. Freelancers or startup employees often work long hours, but may not have access to adjustable chairs or proper desk setups.
Here’s what to watch for:
- Neck and back strain from poor chair support
- Wrist pain from improper keyboard or mouse alignment
- Eye strain from bad lighting or long screen time
- Tension headaches from hunched shoulders or poor posture
Encourage better habits by investing in portable ergonomic accessories—a laptop stand, external keyboard, and proper lighting can go a long way. If you’re managing a team in a coworking space, offer guidance on how to set up a comfortable workstation.
Electrical Hazards
Shared spaces often mean a tangle of devices—laptops, phones, chargers, monitors—all plugged into limited outlets. Overloaded power strips or daisy-chained extension cords aren’t just inconvenient, they’re dangerous.
Electrical fires may be rare, but they’re usually preventable. Always:
- Use surge-protected power strips
- Avoid overloading sockets
- Keep cords untangled and away from walkways
- Report any exposed wiring or broken outlets immediately
Coworking space operators should have a clear maintenance plan, but it’s also on users to speak up when they see potential hazards.
Kitchen Accidents
Most coworking spaces offer shared kitchens, which is great for coffee breaks, but not without risk. Hot water dispensers, microwaves, and toaster ovens all require caution, especially in a crowded space.
Common issues include:
- Burns from spilt drinks or steam
- Slips from spilt liquids
- Cuts from shared knives or broken glass
- Cross-contamination from poor food hygiene
Simple reminders—like cleaning up after yourself and reporting spills—can make a big difference. Space managers should also regularly inspect equipment and post basic kitchen safety signs.
Fire Safety and Evacuation Confusion
When multiple businesses work in one space, fire safety can become an afterthought. Does everyone know the escape routes? Who’s responsible for headcounts? Are the alarms tested regularly?
Every coworking space should have:
- Clearly marked exits
- Visible fire extinguishers and alarms
- Regular drills or at least posted evacuation plans
- A designated point person for safety questions
As a user, take five minutes to learn the layout and exits. In emergencies, confusion costs time.
Final Thoughts
Coworking spaces offer freedom and flexibility—but they also come with shared responsibility. Accidents happen when basic safety gets lost in the shuffle of independent work.
Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or managing a small team, staying aware of common hazards helps everyone enjoy the benefits of a shared space without the setbacks. And if something does go wrong, knowing your rights and speaking up is key.
After all, a productive environment should also be a safe one.
Photo credits: Coworking London