MSHA issues safety alert on warehouse, storage hazards

Arlington, VA – Miners in warehouses and other storage areas are at risk for musculoskeletal disorders and other types of injuries and illnesses, the Mine Safety and Health Administration cautions in a new safety alert.

Released April 29, the alert states that hazards can arise during handling, storing and moving materials. In a letter sent to metal and non-metal mine operators, MSHA notes that, in 2014, a truck driver died when he fell from a stack of pallets as he tried to gather wooden planks near a storage building’s rafters.

According to MSHA, following safe job procedures and Title 30 CFR Parts 56 and 57 can help protect workers. Best practices for mine operators and miners include:

• At the start of each shift, examine the warehouse. Fix unsafe equipment and conditions.
• Identify and mitigate or eliminate hazards.
• Ensure delivery workers receive site-specific training unless they’re with an experienced miner.
• Refrain from assigning work to solitary workers in hazardous areas. Account for all workers after a shift.
• Keep aisles and exits clear of hazards.
• Store flammable, combustible and hazardous materials in a way that minimizes the dangers.
• Organize materials and storage areas for easy access.
• For heavy items, use powered equipment, such as a forklift.