Description of accident:
An 18-year-old worker needed to fill the ice reservoir on a beverage machine. It was his 45th day on the job. The worker filled a bucket with ice and used a stool to climb onto the counter. After dumping the ice, he kneeled on the counter and put his leg straight down onto the stool. The stool slid from underneath him and across the floor. The worker twisted around to catch himself on the counter and came down hard in an awkward position, resulting in back and neck injuries.
How to prevent a similar accident:
- Use a well-maintained step ladder with no damage to the rails, rungs, or metal spreader.
- Use the correct ladder height for the task. Don't allow workers to step on counters, shelves, or boxes.
- Never step on the top step of any ladder, including standard step ladders.
- Don't overextend your reach while up on the step ladder, and make sure your weight is evenly distributed.
- Wear shoes with slip-resistant soles.
- Always face the ladder when ascending and descending.
- Provide training to younger workers on proper equipment usage and safe work practices prior to assigning duties.
- Consistently model safe work practices and frequently observe employees to encourage safe work habits.
Safety Quiz
Food industry workers between the ages of 16 and 19 are how many times more likely to be seriously injured than workers over the age of 19?
A. Two times
B. Three times
C. Five times
D. Six times
E. Nine times
(The correct answer: D)