Slips/Trips/Falls

Potential Hazard  Remember: Child labor laws do not permit workers younger than 18 to operate forklifts or workers younger than 16 to load or unload goods on or off trucks, railcars, or conveyors. Workers can injure themselves from slips, trips, or falls, while loading or unloading supplies in the delivery area or storage area, or in the parking lot. Variable weather conditions add to the potential hazards. Possible Solutions Young Worker Solutions Employers have the primary responsibility for protecting the safety and health of their workers. Employees are responsible for following the safe work practices of their employers.  Be aware of outside conditions if unloading outside; wear sun protection if sunny, and coats, gloves, boots if wet or cold. Wear appropriate non-slip footwear. Keep walking surfaces free of ice and snow. Carry items only at a height over which you can safely see. Use no-skid waxes and surfaces coated with grit to create non-slip surfaces in slippery areas. Eliminate cluttered or obstructed hallways or walkways. Do not block hallways with delivery items. Use proper lifting techniques. Employer Solutions Employers have the primary responsibility for protecting the safety and health of their workers. Employees are responsible for following the safe work practices of their employers.  Follow OSHA Standards including: The Walking/Working Surfaces Standard [1910.22(a)(1)]: Keep all places of employment clean and orderly and in a sanitary condition. Keep floors clean and dry [1910.22(a)(2)].  Keep aisles and passageways clear and in good repair, with no obstruction across or in aisles that could create a hazard [1910.22(a)]. Keep exits free from obstruction. Access to exits must remain clear of obstructions at all times [1910.37(a)(3)]. Follow the child labor laws that do not permit workers: Younger than 16 to load or unload goods on or off trucks, railcars, or conveyors. Under age 18 to operate hazardous equipment such as forklifts. Under age 18 to operate paper balers or box compactors. Minors 16 years old and older are allowed to load but not operate or unload certain scrap paper balers and box compactors. Consider implementing recommended safe work practices, including: Provide floor plugs or ceiling plugs for equipment so power cords need not run across pathways. Re-lay or stretch carpets that bulge or have become bunched to prevent tripping hazards. Provide adequate lighting. For more information, see General Hazards - Slips/Trips/Falls. Additional Resources 1910.22, General requirements (Walking/working surfaces). OSHA Standard. Small Business Handbook. OSHA Publication 2209, (2005). Helps small business employers meet the legal requirements imposed by the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (the Act), and achieve an in-compliance status before an OSHA inspection. Go on to Delivery Module - Freezers