Conveyors
Hazard:
Workers can be injured when they are caught in pinch points or in the in-going nip points, are hit by falling products or develop musculoskeletal disorders associated with awkward postures or repetitive motions.
Solutions:
• Inspect conveyors regularly;
• Ensure that pinch points are adequately guarded;
• Develop ways of locking out conveyors and train employees in these procedures;
• Provide proper lighting and working surfaces in the area surrounding the conveyor.
Materials Storage
Hazard:
Improperly stored materials may fall and injure workers.
Solutions:
• Stack loads evenly and straight;
• Place heavier loads on lower or middle shelves;
• Remove one object at a time from shelves;
• Keep aisles and passageways clear and in good repair.
Manual Lifting/Handling
Hazard:
Back injuries may occur from improper lifting or overexertion.
Solutions:
• Provide general ergonomics training and task-specific training;
• Minimize the need for lifting by using good design and engineering techniques;
• Lift properly and get a coworker to help if a product is too heavy.
Hazard Communication
Hazard:
Chemical burns are possible if spills of hazardous materials occur.
Solutions:
• Maintain a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for each chemical to which workers are exposed in the facility;
• Follow instructions on the MSDS for handling chemical products;
• Train employees on the risks of each chemical being stored;
• Provide spill cleanup kits in any area where chemicals are stored;
• Have a written spill control plan;
• Train employees to clean up spills, protect themselves and properly dispose of used materials;
• Provide proper personal protective equipment and enforce its use;
• Store all chemicals safely and securely;
• Store chemicals away from forklift traffic areas
