Protecting Our Warehouse Workers | Early Intervention Ergonomics
National Emphasis Program for Protecting our Warehouse Workers
In a bid to prioritize the safety of warehouse workers, the Department of Labor (DOL) recently unveiled a national emphasis program on July 13, 2023. This program specifically targets the prevention of workplace hazards in warehouses, processing facilities, distribution centers, and high-risk retail establishments. By implementing comprehensive safety inspections and fostering proactive measures, the DOL aims to significantly reduce injuries and ensure the well-being of these workers.
The Safety Challenges Faced by Warehouse Workers
Over the past decade, the warehousing and distribution industry has experienced significant growth, providing employment opportunities to over 1.9 million individuals. However, statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics reveal that injury and illness rates in these establishments exceed those of the overall private industry. In some sectors, the rates are more than double. Recognizing the gravity of this situation, Assistant Secretary for Occupational Safety and Health, Doug Parker, stressed the importance of addressing the root causes of worker injuries and encouraging employers to prioritize their health and safety.
Comprehensive Safety Inspections Geared Towards Injury Prevention
The newly launched three-year NEP by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) incorporates a range of safety inspections specifically designed to prevent injuries in warehouses. These inspections will primarily focus on the following key areas:
- Powered Industrial Vehicle Operations: OSHA will conduct thorough assessments of safety protocols and practices related to the operation of powered industrial vehicles, with a strong emphasis on preventing accidents and injuries.
- Material Handling and Storage: In order to safeguard workers, OSHA will meticulously evaluate material handling and storage processes, identifying potential hazards and recommending improvements to mitigate the risk of injuries.
- Walking and Working Surfaces: The program will extensively examine the condition of walking and working surfaces within warehouses, aiming to identify and rectify any hazards that could lead to slips, trips, and falls.
- Means of Egress and Fire Protection: OSHA will closely scrutinize the means of egress and fire protection systems, ensuring compliance with safety standards to prevent accidents and facilitate safe evacuations during emergencies.
Focus on Retail Establishments and Expanding Safety Measures
While the program primarily targets warehouses, it also includes inspections of retail establishments with high injury rates. Storage and loading areas will receive special attention in these establishments. OSHA retains the authority to broaden the scope of inspections if evidence suggests that violations may exist in other sections of these establishments, ensuring a comprehensive approach to injury prevention.
Holistic Approach: Heat and Ergonomic Hazards
Recognizing the importance of addressing all aspects of workplace safety, the emphasis program incorporates the assessment of heat and ergonomic risks. Moreover, if OSHA identifies the presence of such hazards, health inspections may be conducted to evaluate and mitigate potential risks to workers’ well-being.
Collaboration and Continuous Improvement
The selection of establishments for inspections will be based on two lists. The first list comprises establishments with industry codes covered under this emphasis program. The second list includes a limited number of retail establishments with the highest rates of injuries and illnesses resulting in days away from work, restricted duty, or job transfer. It is important to note that state plans are required to either adopt this emphasis program or establish an alternative program that is equally effective, highlighting the importance of collaboration in ensuring the safety of warehouse workers.
Final Thoughts on Protecting our Warehouse Workers
By launching the national emphasis program, the DOL and OSHA are taking decisive action to prioritize the injury prevention and overall safety of warehouse workers. Through comprehensive safety inspections, targeted focus areas, and a commitment to collaboration, this program aims to create a safer working environment, reduce injuries, and enhance the well-being of employees in the warehousing and distribution industry.
Relevant Resource Links:
OSHA’s official announcement
PDF Download: OSHA’s Three-Year National Emphasis Program
Solutions to common warehouse hazards
More Injury Prevention Tools & Resources by Peak Ergonomics