The warehousing and distribution sector has received a lot of attention lately because it is growing quickly and there are more risks. To deal with these worries, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) started the National Emphasis Program (NEP) on Warehousing Safety and Distribution Center Operations. Here is a brief explanation of the program, the dangers in warehousing and distribution, and the products that can help reduce these risks.
UNDERSTANDING OSHA’S NEP ON WAREHOUSING SAFETY AND DISTRIBUTION CENTER OPERATIONS
The warehousing and distribution sector has grown rapidly, with a 156% increase in the number of employees over the past decade. This has led to critical challenges in workplace safety, as nearly two million workers are now part of this sector. The significant rise from 668,900 employees in January 2011 to 1,713,900 in December 2021 shows the large scale of this expansion.
With this substantial growth, there has also been a proportional increase in work-related injuries and illnesses. It is crucial to address these safety concerns and implement strict safety measures to protect the well-being of the workforce as the industry continues to expand. This pressing issue demands comprehensive approaches to ensure that the working environment remains safe and healthy for the growing number of employees in this sector.
WHAT INDUSTRIES ARE AFFECTED?
The National Emphasis Program (NEP) is a focused initiative by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) that targets specific industries such as general warehousing, postal services, courier services, as well as high injury rate retail establishments like supermarkets and hardware stores. The goal of the NEP is to improve workplace safety and health by inspecting, conducting outreach programs, and enforcing regulations in these industries. Prioritizing these sectors allows OSHA to effectively use resources to address potential hazards and ensure safety compliance.
*NAICS: North American Industry Classification System
DURATION AND SCOPE OF THE NEP
Effective from July 13, 2023, the NEP will be in place for three years, encompassing programmed and unprogrammed inspections. It will prioritize workplace hazards such as ergonomic risks, struck-by hazards, heat and cold stress in refrigerated warehousing, as well as slips, trips, falls, and material handling.
WHAT TYPE OF OSHA INSPECTIONS ARE CONDUCTED UNDER THE WAREHOUSING NEP?
The content provided outlines the focus areas for inspections under the NEP, highlighting workplace hazards common to the mentioned industries. It emphasizes key areas like powered industrial vehicle operations, material handling/storage, walking-working surfaces, means of egress, and fire protection. It also stresses the importance of considering heat and ergonomic hazards during all NEP inspections, with a provision for conducting a health inspection if OSHA becomes aware of the presence of these hazards. This comprehensive approach reflects the commitment to ensuring workplace safety and addressing potential risks across various aspects of operation within these industries.
WILL INSPECTIONS BE PROGRAMMED?
Programmed inspections will follow a list of establishments in certain NAICS codes. Unprogrammed inspections due to fatalities, complaints, or referrals related to these NAICS codes will also address workplace hazards targeted by this plan.
EXAMPLES OF HAZARDS IN WAREHOUSING AND DISTRIBUTION CENTER SETTINGS
- Ergonomic Risks
Tasks involving heavy lifting, bending and repetitive motions pose significant risks. - Struck-by Hazards
Incidents involving powered industrial trucks are a primary concern. - Heat Stress
Exposure to high temperatures requires expanded inspection scopes. - Cold Stress
Working in refrigerated environments necessitates appropriate planning and PPE. - Slips, Trips and Falls
These common accidents call for proper footwear and good housekeeping practices. - Material Handling
Hand and forearm protection are crucial when dealing with loads with sharp or rough edges.
Many thanks to our friends at Ergodyne for allowing us to republish this article. Find Ergodyne products at SPISafety.com.