Risk Control

Palletizing at Floor Level Ergonomic Solutions at a Glance

Description of Issue Manual material handling, such as loading or unloading a pallet at floor level, presents a significant risk of back injury to employees. Related injuries:

• Low back strain

• Low back disc injury

• Shoulder strain

Possible Solutions

1. Pallet Stand Inexpensive. Easy to fabricate and install. Ideal for material stacked less than 24” high. Items should weigh less than 50 lbs each. Not height adjustable. If pallet is stacked over 24”, it encourages overhead reaching, which

increases the risk of shoulder injury. Cost: Less then $500

2. Lift Table Pallet height varies based on weight of load. Eliminates floor-level bending. “Lazy-Susan” top allows pallet to rotate. Ensures good posture during most palletizing tasks. Items should weigh less than 50 lbs each. If pallet is stacked over 48”, it encourages overhead reaching, increasing risk

of shoulder injury. Difficult to use with a pallet jack.

Cost: $2,000 - $4,000

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Risk Control

3. Hoist Arm with Vacuum Head Eliminates manual lifting. Significantly reduces employee injures. Increased output – can be used to load multiple pallets - can maximize stack

height. Items weighing more than 50 lbs each. Site preparation and installation costs. May increase handling time per unit.

Cost: $15,000

Guideline for developing your solution Determine the risk of injury to employees from each item being delivered. Minimize manual materials handling, especially of bulky or heavy items. Understand the hazards associated with the vehicle and the client’s site. Reduce hazards as appropriate and communicate safe work practices to employees. For more information, visit our Web site at travelers.com/riskcontrol, contact your Risk Control consultant or email Ask-Risk-Control@travelers.com.

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The information provided in this document is intended for use as a guideline and is not intended as, nor does it constitute, legal or professional advice. Travelers does not warrant that adherence to, or compliance with, any recommendations, best practices, checklists, or guidelines will result in a particular outcome. In no event will Travelers or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates be liable in tort or in contract to anyone who has access to or uses this information. Travelers does not warrant that the information in this document constitutes a complete and finite list of each and every item or procedure related to the topics or issues referenced herein. Furthermore, federal, state or local laws, regulations, standards or codes may change from time to time and the reader should always refer to the most current requirements. This material does not amend, or otherwise affect, the provisions or coverages of any insurance policy or bond issued by Travelers, nor is it a representation that coverage does or does not exist for any particular claim or loss under any such policy or bond. Coverage depends on the facts and circumstances involved in the claim or loss, all applicable policy or bond provisions, and any applicable law.

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