I've seen it work, and I've seen it backfire too. It really depends on if you think you're both mature enough to handle the possibility of it not working out. In any case, it's best to have a contingency plan.

It's currently the dilemma I'm facing as I have a coworker interested in me, but I'm not really sure if I'm willing to take a chance on her just yet

as long as you dont work with them I cant see much of a problem with it. might get a bit boring in the end though, talking work alot and not having something new to bring to each other. might not

Noooo, unless you dont really like your job

How it is so beneficial to me?

Generally not a good idea

It's not a good idea to date anyone.

No, but I mean, that hasn't stopped a billion people before.

Honestly think about it this way "How fucked am I if we break up and hate each other?"