Storeroom safety - hazards

Storerooms can be used for food, clothing, stationery, chemicals, and a variety of other items. If they are left to get untidy and cluttered the hidden hazards may pose a risk to staff who use the storeroom. It is important to regularly clear out any redundant equipment and to ensure shelves are secure and stacked properly.

Common hazards include:

• unsafe racking
• top heavy racking
• smoking near flammable goods
• improper storage of liquid petroleum gas
• ladders with damaged or broken rungs
• standing on boxes instead of ladders to reach items on shelves
• inadequate lighting
• lack of routine cleaning
• broken glass
• leaking chemical containers
• accumulation of refuse and redundant equipment
• horseplay
• aisles obstructed
• obstructed fire exists
• gas cylinders not chained to walls
• inadequate storage space
• working in confined spaces
• fork lift trucks