Doc. No 05/0918/97 EN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SAFETY CHECK

 

Food shops - A 111

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BGE - Berufsgenossenschaft fόr den Einzelhandel


 

 

Safety Check – Food shops

 

 

The Safety Check “Food shops” covers the following premises:

 

·        reception/storage area

·        meat and delicatessen counters

·        cheese counters

·        beverage counters

·        bakery counters

·        shop

·        meat preparation

·        fish counters

·        fruit and vegetable counters

·        office

 

The list excludes e.g. kitchens and decorative work areas. Special safety checks are prepared for premises of this kind or they are included in other safety checks.

 

 

As an employer you have a duty under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (ArbSchG) to safeguard and improve the safety and health of the people working for you. Consequently you must:

 

·        identify the accident and health risks associated with the work

·        assess the risks in terms of hazards to health

·        determine which safety and health measures need to be taken

·        ensure that those measures are carried out

·        if your business employs more than 10 people you must keep records showing that you have identified the accident and health risks and that you monitor the safety and health measures taken (Art. 3, para. 1, Arts. 5 and 6 ArbSchG, see last page).

 

 

This brochure will help you!

 

Our Technical Supervisory Service will be happy to answer your queries on how to carry out the requirements and welcomes your suggestions as to how the Safety Check might be improved. Contact us in one of the following ways:

 

PO Box 12 08, 53002 Bonn, Tel. (0228) 5406-0,

Fax (0228) 5406-220

28275 Bremen, Tel. (0421) 84958-0, Fax (0421) 84958-299

PO Box 15 02 35, 10664 Berlin, Tel. (030) 8818037,

Fax (030) 8811564

80270 Munich, Tel. (089) 1238649, Fax (089) 12600282


- 1 -

 

 

Safety Check – Food shops

 

 

How should the check be carried out?

 

·        Work through the Safety Check from beginning to end. Its structure is explained on page 2.

 

·        See which of the problems named in Column 1, i.e. fittings and equipment, appliances and activities, apply in your business and put a cross in the box next to them. If necessary, add other equipment, appliances and activities which may present a hazard.

 

·        In Column 2 decide if a risk is present. Put a cross in the appropriate box. Even if you answer “yes”, read the safety and health measures listed. They may give you ideas for further possible improvements.

 

·        In Column 3 indicate which of the suggested safety and health measures are needed in your business. Give them one of the numbers you have crossed in Column 1. You can use the same number more than once. Specify more precise locations if appropriate. Add to the list of measures if necessary.

 

Bear in mind that hazards are best eliminated at source. Technical measures are preferable to other, e.g. organizational, measures.

 

Measures marked with an “I” are ones in which you should give your employees regular instruction.

 

·        Specify in Column 4 who is responsible for carrying out the measures and when.

Ensure that faults and omissions are remedied once and for all or eliminated immediately, e.g. by allocating responsibilities, drawing up checklists, carrying out regular inspections.

 

·        Where no appropriate safety and health measures are listed, you can get further information from the publications listed in Column 5. Titles and an order form are included at the end of the brochure.

 

·        If there are other problems in your business, give details accordingly under the heading “Other”.

 


- 1a -

 

 

 

 

·        If necessary seek advice from the Berufsgenossenschaft’s Technical Supervisory Service or an occupational safety expert (safety engineer, safety department) or occupational physician (occupational medical service).

 

·        Check that the measures you have decided on have in fact been carried out. Record this in the box at the bottom of each page.

 

·        Revise the Safety Check

 

·        After accidents or near-accidents at work

·        If an occupational illness or an occupational cause of illness is suspected

·        When business premises and fittings and equipment are acquired or converted

·        When technical equipment is procured or modified (e.g. tools, machinery)

·        When new working methods and processes are introduced or old ones modified

·        When substances hazardous to health are introduced

·        When there are changes to laws and regulations.

 

 

 

 

This safety check carried out on                        by                   

 

This safety check carried out on                        by                   

 

This safety check carried out on                        by                   

 
 

 

 

 

 


- 2 -

 


 

 

 

 What the columns mean

 

 

 

 

1.

This covers possible problems, beginning with falls sustained in “traffic routes”, and lists  fittings and equipment, appliances and activities which may present a hazard

 

 

2.

The questions and notes help you to identify accident and health hazards

 

3.

This column lists possible safety and health measures

 

4.

Who is responsible for implementing the measure and when?

 

5.

The Info column lists publications which give further information on safety and health measures

 

Problems known from by experience                                         Measures marked with an I are ones in which you

to be a frequent cause of accidents or                                        should give your employees regular instruction.

illnesses are highlighted with a *.

 


- 2a -

 

 

 

 

 

Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

* Falls on traffic routes

     No.

  1. Floors

ύ 2. Serving aisle (meat, cheese, fish, bakery)

  3. Stairs

ύ 4.Step

  5. Slope

  6. Ramp

  7. Unsuitable footwear (poor grip, open front)

  8. …..

  9. …..

 

 

 

Are traffic routes designed in such a way that people cannot trip, slip or turn an ankle?

 

Are the following absent?

·         Holes in floor

·         Floor tiles missing/uneven

·         Electrical flexes in traffic routes

·         Thresholds

·         Smooth floor, no anti-skid strips

·         Lack of overflow space

·         Dirt, wet patches

·         Objects lying around

 

 

 

 

o  yes      ύ  no  ΰ

β

 

No.

 Repair floors

 Lay suitable anti-skid strips on floor (meat preparation serving aisle)

 Allow sufficient overflow space (serving aisle, meat preparation)

 Keep traffic routes clear                                         I

 Stow (leave) flexes where they will

not be tripped over

 Sheath flexes properly

 Eliminate tripping points

 Mark tripping points

 Lay suitable flooring

 Fit drain holes at floor level

 Eliminate thresholds

 Make the approach to thresholds a slope

 Remove dirt/contamination immediately               I

 Avoid wetness due to rain/snow e.g. by roof cover, mats

 Mop up wetness due to rain/snow                          I

 

 

 

H. Mόller, 15.9

 

H. Meyer, 27.8.

 

 

 

 

 

 

H. Meyer, 27.8.

 

 

VBG 1

VBG 125

R 1

M 10

M 11

M44

M86

M 90

 

                                               


- 3 -

 

 

 

Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

* Falls on traffic routes

  No.

1. Floors

2. Serving aisle (meat, cheese, fish, bakery)

3. Stairs

4.Step

5. Slope

6. Ramp

7. Unsuitable footwear (poor grip, open front)

8. …..

9. …..

 

 

 

Are traffic routes designed in such a way that people cannot trip, slip or turn an ankle?

 

Are the following absent?

·         Holes in floor

·         Floor tiles missing/uneven

·         Electrical flexes in traffic routes

·         Thresholds

·         Smooth floor, no anti-skid strips

·         Lack of overflow space

·         Dirt, wet patches

·         Objects lying around

 

 

 

 

o  yes        no  ΰ

β

 

 No.

Repair floors

Lay suitable anti-skid strips on floor (meat preparation serving aisle)

Allow sufficient overflow space (serving aisle, meat preparation)

Keep traffic routes clear                                              I

Stow (leave) flexes where they will

not be tripped over

Sheath flexes properly

Eliminate tripping points

Mark tripping points

Lay suitable flooring

Fit drain holes at floor level

Eliminate thresholds

Make the approach to thresholds a slope

Remove dirt/contamination immediately                   I

Avoid wetness due to rain/snow e.g. by roof cover, mats

Mop up wetness due to rain/snow                              I

Remove wetness, ice (chilled room, freezer room)    I

Clean up outside shop hours

Use detergents which do not add to the danger of slipping

Repair steps/stair risers

Avoid steps in traffic routes, e.g. by slopes

Mark steps in traffic routes

Wear well fitting shoes                                               I

In serving aisle and meat preparation: wear well fitting shoes closed at the front and with the right depth of tread                                                              I

…..

…..

 

 

 

 

VBG 1

VBG 125

R 1

M 10

M 11

M44

M86

M 90

 

 

Completion check carried out on                                                       by                                                          

 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


- 3a -


- 4 -

 

 

Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

Falling

 No.

1. Ladder

2. Stepladder

3. Incorrect ascending aid (chair, bottles crate, etc.)

4. …..

5. …..

 

Are ascending aids safe and used for their proper purpose?

 

   yes     no  ΰ

β

 

 

 

 No.

Provide enough ladders and stepladders of the right size

 Bottles crates, bucket, etc. not to be used as  ascending aids

Wear (insist on) well fitting shoes with flexible soles and flat heels                                                               I

Fix price notices in such a way that they can be changed safely (drinks)

Position standing ladders securely                       I       

No excessive leaning to the side

Do not climb across standing ladders

Do not use defective ladders and stepladders until they have been properly repaired

Replace defective ladders and stepladders

Instruct staff that ladders and stepladders must be inspected prior to each use                                          I

…..

…..

 

 

 

 

VBG 74

M 12

M 48

M 53

1. Ramp

2. Stairs/landing/staging

3. Loading platform

4. Intermediate platform

5. Lifting platform

6. …..

7. …..

Are measures in place to prevent falls?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

 

 

Fit guard against falling, e.g. railing

Do not fit railings to ramp sections constantly used for loading/unloading

Mark edges of loading areas in black-yellow

Keep traffic routes clear                                              I

Use loading platform with anti-slip locking mechanism

Fit handrail to stairs

Use handrail                                                                I

…..

…..

 

VBG 1

VBG 125

M 5

M 11

M 44

M 74

 

Completion check carried out on                                                       by                                                          

 

- 5 -

 

 

 


Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

Dangerous surfaces

*  No.

1.        Knife

2.        Fork

3.        Skewer

4.        Saw blade

5.        Cleaver

6.        …..

7.        …..

 

Are cutting/stabbing injuries avoided?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

 

 

 No.

Provide knife and cleaver block at workplace

Ensure knife and cleaver block is used                      I

Store saw blades safely                                              I

Store knives, forks, skewers safely, e.g. in cutting board side notch                                                         I

Do not use pointed knives for boning/butchering      I

Provide suitable heavy-duty gloves, e.g. with metal protectors

Ensure gloves are worn                                              I

Provide right size of anti-stab apron for boning

and butchering                                                            I

 

 

 

VBG 1

R 1

M 16

M 94

*

1.        Cardboard cutter

2.        Knife

3.        Scissors

4.        …..

5.       …..

 

Are suitable tools used for opening packagings?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

 

Discard unsuitable/defective tools                             I

Use cardboard cutter with automatic safety blade     I

Use foil cutter                                                            I

Replace blunt blades                                                  I

Use a cutter wire to cut string                                    I

…..

…..

 

 

 

VBG 1

R 1

M 63

 

Completion check carried out on                                                       by                                                          

 

- 6 -

 

 

 

 

 


Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

 No.

1.        S-hook

2.        Paper spike

3.        Hook

4.        ….

 

Are ends blunted or rounded?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

 No.

Blunt/round off one end of S-hooks for meat

Provide letter trays/clamps

Use Euro-hooks                                                          I

 

 

VBG 1

R 1

5.        Pallet

6.        Castor-mounted container

7.        Crate

8.        Shopping trolley

9.        …..

Is transport equipment free of damage?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

 

Discard defective transport equipment

Mark defective transport equipment                          I

Repair it

Make castors accessible

Fix catwalks securely

…..

 

VBG 1

R 1

M 64

10.     Shelves

11.     Work tops

12.     Tills

13.     …..

Are cutting points made safe?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

Remove ridges

Round off edges

Fit edge guards

…..

 

R 1

14.     Glass insert

15.     Glass panes

16.     Mirrors

17.     Bottles/jars

18.     Glass door

19.     Glass wall

20.     …..

Are glass objects free of damage?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

Dispose of separately                                                  I

Secure by taping over until repaired

Repair, replace pane

Use safety glass

…..

 

VBG 1

R 1

M 29

21.     Glass door

22.     Glass wall

23.     …..

Are glass surfaces in traffic routes easy to see?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

Fix stickers

…..

 

VBG 1

R 1

M 29

24.     Ceilings

25.     Power leads

26.     Decorative objects

27.     …..

Are impact points at head height made safe?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

 

 

Cushion impact points

Mark impact points black-yellow

Re-route decorative objects/hang higher

 

VBG 1

VBG 125

R 1

 

Completion check carried out on                                                       by                                                          

 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


- 6a -


- 7 -

 

 

 

Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

* Unguarded moving machine parts

 No.

1.        Slicer (meat, cheese, bread, meat preparation)

2.        …..

3.        …..

 

 

Are cutting injuries avoided?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

 

 

 No.

Procure suitable slicer fitted with

·         fixed top guard

·         fixed-position meat/cheese/bread holder

·         locking between top plate and carriage

·         restart lock

·         wide carriage rear side (min. 150 mm)

Draw up operating instructions and ensure

staff know them                                                          I

Angled cutting only to be done using the right equipment                                                                   I

Cleaning only when machine switched off                I

Cleaning aids to be provided and used                       I

Replace excessively worn blade with a new one       I

…..

…..

 

 

 

 

VBG 19

M 22

 

Completion check carried out on                                                       by                                                          

 
 

 

 



- 8 -

 

 

 

Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

 No.

1.        Mincer

2.        Cutter

3.        Band saw for bones

4.        …..

5.        …..

 

Are injuries avoided?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

 No.

Procure only machines carrying the CE mark

Set up machines in stable position

Draw up operating instructions and ensure staff

know them                                                                  I

Allow sufficient room at workplace

Provide and use tampers                                             I

Use pushers or sliding base                                         I

Do not tie up pusher

Provide and use screw ejector                                     I

Repair defective locking mechanism

Adjust inadequate brake mechanism

Ban wearing of gloves

…..

…..

 

 

VBG 19

6.        Till

7.        …..

8.       …..

Are trapping points avoided?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

Check spring plate properly tensioned

Avoid trapping point between belt and return roll (adjust belt)                                                                 I

…..

…..

 

R 1

M 86

 

Completion check carried out on                                                       by                                                          

 
 

 

 



- 9 -

 

 

Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

Objects liable to shift

 No.

1.        Chopping block

2.        Cutting block

3.        …..

4.        …..

 

Is working surface level?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

 

 No.

Remove chopping block

Remove cutting block

…..

…..

 

 

 

VBG 19

5.        Shelf

6.        …..

7.        …..

Are shelves stable?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

Anchor shelves to wall/ceiling

Bracket shelves together

Replace or repair damaged shelving parts

Fit bump guards/deflectors

Do not exceed max. permitted load (drawer/field)     I

…..

…..

 

R 1

ZH 1/361

ZH 1/428

8.        (Tensioned) rubber belt

9.        …..

10.     …..

Are fabric belts used?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

 

Use fabric instead of rubber belts

Use male staff to release rubber belts                         I

…..

…..

 

M 64

11.     Pallet

12.     Loading platform

13.     Stack (cardboard boxes)

14.     Gas cylinder

15.     …..

16.     …..

Are high-sided upright objects secured against tipping over?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

Store items flat                                                            I

Tie down                                                                     I

Push to back of shelf                                                   I

…..

…..

 

VBG 1

R 1

17.     Stocks

18.     Merchandise

19.     Decorative aids

20.     Cardboard boxes

21.     …..

22.     …..

Are objects secured against falling down?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

Stack merchandise in stable position                          I

Unstack boxes etc. carefully                                       I

…..

…..

 

VBG 1

R 1

 

Completion check carried out on                                                       by                                                          

 
 


- 10 -

 

 

 

 

 

Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

Transport equipment, moving of work aids

 No.

1.        Delivery vehicles

2.        …..

3.        …..

 

 

Does a workmate direct reversing vehicle or are warning devices fitted?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

 

 

 No.

Use workmate to direct

…..

…..

 

 

 

 

VBG 12

4.        Floor conveyor

5.        Castor-mounted containers

6.        Shopping trolley

7.        …..

8.        …..

Is transport equipment loaded in such a way as to leave a clear view of traffic routes?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

Load no higher than eye level                                     I

Unstack boxes etc. carefully                                       I

Use 2 people                                                               I

…..

…..

 

VBG 36

R 1

M 64

 

Are staff suitable for driving floor conveyors?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

Check physical and character aptitude

…..

…..

 

 

 

Are staff careful when operating transport equipment?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

Tip:

Suitable and well-fitting safety shoes

Are recommended

For operation of floor conveyors, training and specific responsibility to be given                              I

No improper use of floor conveyors (e.g.

“skating”, riding on fork)                                           I

Wear sturdy footwear                                                 I

…..

…..

 

 

VBG 1

VBG 36

M 90

 

Is transport equipment free of defects?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

Instruct staff to do a visual inspection in future
before starting work                                                    I

Have equipment serviced regularly

Have equipment checked regularly

Stop using defective transport equipment

Repair transport equipment

…..

 

VBG 1

VBG 36

 

Completion check carried out on                                                       by                                                          

 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


- 10a -


- 11 -

 

 

 

 

 

Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

Contact with hot media (burns, scalds)

 No.

1.        Hot water/steam

2.        Hot fat

3.        Ovens, oven trays

4.        Microwave

5.        Grill

6.        …..

7.        …..

 

 

Are burns/scalds avoided?

 

  yes     no   ΰ

β

 

 

Provide and use gloves and/or oven cloths                 I

Provide and use suitable containers (heat

Resistance, size)                                                          I

Only move hot fat after it has cooled                          I

…..

…..

 

 

 

VBG 1

 

Completion check carried out on                                                       by                                                          

 
 

 

 



- 12 -

 

 

 

Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

Fire hazard

 No.

1.        Electrical appliances/fittings (lights, heaters etc.)

2.        Storage of materials which burn/ignite easily (paper, textiles, packaging materials etc.)

3.        Smouldering cigarettes

4.        Hot fat fires (fryer etc.)

5.       . …..

 

 

Are fire prevention measures in place?

 

  yes     no  ΰ

β

 

 No.

Switch off electrical appliances/fittings when not needed for a longer period of time

(coffee maker etc.)                                                      I

Keep adequate distance between heat-generating appliances/fittings and flammable materials

Do not plug multi-gang trailing sockets into one another

No smoking rule (except in e.g. leisure areas)

Empty ash only into fire-resistant or self-extinguishing ashtrays                                                I

…..

…..

 

 

 

VBG 1

R 1

M 1

M 18

M 30

M 35

 

Are fire-fighting and rescue measures in place?

 

  yes     no  ΰ

β

Provide sufficient number of fire extinguishers

Provide fire extinguishing blanket

Have extinguishers checked (every 2 yrs)

Instruct staff in use of extinguishers                           I

Mark escape routes and emergency exits

Keep escape routes and emergency exits clear          I

Ensure emergency exit doors are not locked on the inside

…..

…..

 

VBG 1

VBG 125

R 1

M 67

M 83

 

 

Completion check carried out on                                                       by                                                          

 

- 13 -

 

 


Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

Emergency procedures

 No.

1.        Fire

2.        Bomb scare

3.        Power cut

4.        Accidents

5.        Raid on shop

6.        …..

…..

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Have staff been briefed on what to do in an emergency?

 

  yes     no  ΰ

β

 
 No.

Complete and display fire notice

Provide first-aid training to staff members

Ensure staff know emergency telephone numbers

Provide first aid kit and ensure staff know

where it is kept                                                            I

Draw up/update emergency plan and ensure staff know it                                                                        I

Draw up/update evacuation plan and ensure staff know it                                                                        I

Draw up fire regulations and ensure staff

know them                                                                  I

Draw up rules for how to behave in a robbery and ensure staff know them                                               I

Brief staff on how to deal with accidents at work      I

…..

…..

 

 

 

 

ArbStδttV

VBG 1

VBG 109

R 1

R 3

M 81

A 1

 

Completion check carried out on                                                       by                                                          

 
 

 

 

 

 

 



- 14 -

 

 

 

 

Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

Handling money

Are sales exclusively cash-free?

 

  yes     no  ΰ

β

 

 

Are measures in place to discourage raids on the shop?

 

  yes     no  ΰ

β

 

NB: people’s lives and health are more important than property

Clear cash from the premises regularly

Keep cash in safe/delayed opening container

Set up machinery for cash-free sales

Use security firm for transporting money

Use 2 people to move money

Install alarm system

Do not openly count and put away cash                     I

Draw attention to security measures

Draw up rules for handling cash and ensure staff know them                                                                  I

Draw up rules on how staff should act in the

event of a raid and ensure staff know them                I

…..

…..

 

R 1

R 3

M 3

A 8

V 9

Shoplifting

 

Are measures in place to discourage shoplifting?

 

  yes     no  ΰ

β

 

NB: people’s lives and health are more important than property

Design sales area in such a way as to afford clear views of it

Install surveillance equipment, e.g. mirrors, camera

Attach safety tags to goods

Draw attention to security measures/ equipment

Use security service/detectives

Draw up rules on how staff should deal with shoplifting and ensure staff know them                      I

…..

…..

 

R 3

M 3

 

Completion check carried out on                                                       by                                                          

 
 

 



- 15 -

 

 

 

Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

Products containing hazardous substances

 No.

1.        Detergents, grill cleaners

2.        Limescale removers

3.        Spray

4.        Spirit

5.        Paints/varnishes

6.        Adhesives

7.        Pesticides

8.        …..

9.        …..

 

 

Is the handling of products containing or liberating hazardous substances  avoided?

 

Handling means:

Transporting, storing, selling, using, disposing of them etc.

 

  yes     no  ΰ

β

 

 

 

 

 No.

Identify products

Substitute non-hazardous products

Substitute less hazardous products

Procure safety data sheets from manufacturer/supplier

Ban storage in food and drink containers

Provide suitable and right sizes of personal protection (rubber gloves, goggles)

Ensure that personal protection is worn

Draw up rules and acquaint staff with them               I

Get staff to confirm in writing that they have received instruction and understood it

…..

…..

 

 

 

 

GeStoffV

VBG 1

R 1

M 1

M 2

A 39

 

                                                                NB: Damage may be caused in particular by absorption through the skin, respiratory passages, eyes and stomach

 

The labels of products which contain hazardous substances will typically show the following symbols:

 

 


                                                                                                                               

 

toxic                        hazardous to health                             corrosive                               irritant                                    flammable

 

 

Completion check carried out on                                                       by                                                          

 

- 16 -

 

 

 

 


Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

Touching defective electrical appliances

 No.

1.        Socket

2.        Light switch

3.        Leads

4.        Lights

5.        Electrical tools (drill etc.)

6.        Electrical appliances (cash register, computer, coffee maker etc.)

7.        Fuse boxes

8.        …..

9.        …..

 

 

 

Are plugs, switches, sockets, leads and casings free of damage?

 

  yes     no  ΰ

β

 
 
 No.

Do not use defective appliances until they have been properly repaired                                                         I

Do not use defective tools until they have been repaired                                                                       I

Install damp-proof plant

Install on/off selector switch (meat preparation)

Secure light switches/sockets until they have been properly repaired (e.g. tape over.)                              I

Have defects repaired by skilled electrician

Fit protective hood

Make good missing sheathings in fuse box

Remove leads taken through doors/windows             I

Repair leads subjected to excessive drag

Keep decorative aids and other objects away from leads and lights                                                           I

…..

…..

 

 

 

 

VBG 4

M 36

 

 

Completion check carried out on                                                       by                                                          

 

- 17 -

 

 

 


Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

Room temperature and humidity

 No.

1.        Draughts

2.        Air too dry

3.        Big swings in temperature

4.        Inadequate ventilation

5.        Too cold

6.        Too hot

7.        Chilled room

8.        Freezer room

9.        …..

10.     …..

 

 

 

Are the indoor conditions comfortable (temperature, humidity, heat radiation, airflow)?

 

  yes     no  ΰ

β

 

 

 No.

Check heating/air-conditioning

Prevent draughts by positioning of fittings (furniture, shelving, partitions etc.)

Provide door curtain

Provide wind break curtain

Increase humidity (use humidifier)

Open windows briefly                                                 I

Wear suitable work clothing                                       I

Provide suitable thermal clothing  (e.g. gloves, coats, head coverings)

Ensure thermal clothing is used                                  I

…..

…..

 

 

 

 

ArbStδttV

R 1

 

Lighting

1.        Not enough light

2.        Dazzle

3.        …..

4.        …..

 

Is there (enough) light in traffic routes and at workplaces?

 

  yes     no  ΰ

β

 

Have lighting installed where it is absent but needed

Adjust brightness to the type of work being done

Install lighting which is flicker-free

Install light switches where they are readily accessible

Install motion-actuated lighting

Install luminous light switches

Clean lampshades

Fit blinds

…..

…..

 

 

ArbStδttV

ZH 1/190

R 1

 

 

Completion check carried out on                                                       by                                                          

 

- 18 -

 

 

 

 

 


Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

Arduous physical work/forced posture

 No.

1.        Lifting and carrying of loads

2.        Carrying loads upstairs

3.        Working in a stooped posture

4.        Working in a twisted posture

5.        Working at service counters (meat, cheese, fish)

6.        …..

7.        …..

 

 

 

Are measures in place to prevent injury caused by physical strain?

 

  yes     no  ΰ

β

 

 

 No.

Determine physical aptitude

Order items in smaller/lighter-weight packagings

Provide means of transport

Provide lifting aids

Use 2 people to move heavy and/or

awkward objects                                                         I

Break down bundled items before moving them       I

Store heavy objects at the lowest possible level        I

Sell heavy items direct from the pallet

Vary the types of work performed

Teach staff correct lifting techniques                         I

Give back-strengthening training

Involve occupational physician

…..

 

 

 

 

LasthandhabV

M 103

One-sided physical work

1.        Till with conveyor belt

2.        Pricing

3.        …..

4.        …..

 

Are measures in place to prevent injury caused by one-sided physical strain?

 

  yes     no  ΰ

β

 

Provide suitable till

Vary the types of work performed

Use in ergonomically correct manner (heed operating instructions)                                                                I

Ensure scanner window is clean

Adjust seat to correct height                                       I

…..

 

 

LasthandhabV

M 103

Effects on skin

1.        Wear gloves (e.g. rubber, latex, vinyl)

2.        …..

3.        …..

 

Is the wearing of gloves avoided for long periods of time?

 

  yes     no  ΰ

β

 

Change working procedure to make gloves unnecessary

Draw up skin protection plan

Provide skin protection products

Use skin protection products                                      I

Involve occupational physician

…..

 

 

VBG 1

TRGS 531

R 1

M 100

 

 

Completion check carried out on                                                       by                                                          

 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


- 18a -


- 19 -

 

 

 

Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

 

Stress

1.        Pressure of time

2.        Sales targets

3.        Irregular deliveries

4.        Working alone

5.        …..

6.        …..

 

Is work known about far enough ahead and plannable?

 

  yes     no  ΰ

β

 

 

Divide work up better

Match deliveries to storage capacity

Have right numbers of staff assigned to sales and movement of goods respectively

Introduce stock management system

Give staff enough advance warning of things

Ensure that staff are not left to cope alone

…..

…..

 

 

VBG 1

 

* Insufficient risk awareness

 No.

1.        Ignorance

2.        Lack of motivation

3.        Lack of care when working with others

4.        Lack of coordination with outside firms

5.        Lack of willingness to cooperate

6.        …..

7.        …..

 

 

 

Are measures to ensure correct behaviour/safety seen by staff as a matter of course?

 

  yes     no  ΰ

β

 

 

 No.

Motivate staff

Give instruction

Talk to staff individually

Require senior staff to uphold measures to ensure correct behaviour/safety – “set an example”

Designate a member of staff to coordinate work with outside firms

Encourage staff to remedy shortcomings

Immediately                                                                I

Encourage staff to report shortcomings immediately I

…..

…..

 

 

 

 

VBG 1

R 1

B 10

B 36

M 85

 

 

Completion check carried out on                                                       by                                                          

 
 

 

 


- 20 -

 

 

 

Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

 

 

Inadequate inspections

1.        Recurrent shortcomings, e.g. emergency exits obstructed, defective power sockets

2.        Fittings which must be inspected by law, e.g. electrical plant and appliances, automatic doors and gates, lifts

3.        Personal protection, e.g. gloves, shoes, etc.

4.        …..

5.        …..

 

Are items inspected regularly and are identified shortcomings remedied immediately?

  yes     no  ΰ

β

 

Draw up inspection checklists

Determine intervals between inspections

Conduct inspections (have them conducted)

Ensure that identified shortcomings are remedied

…..

…..

 

 

VBG 1

VBG 4

B 6

A 234

 

Instruction

 

 

Are staff given instruction before they begin work?

 

  yes     no  ΰ

β

 

 No.

Give instruction

Keep records

Check efficacy of instruction

…..

…..

 

 

 

VBG 1

R 1

B 36

A 238

 

 

 

Are staff given instruction on a regular basis?

 

  yes     no  ΰ

β

 

 

Give instruction

Draw up schedule of instruction; identify persons receiving it, content and intervals at which given

Keep records

Check efficacy of instruction

…..

…..

 

 

 

 

Completion check carried out on                                                       by                                                          

 
 


- 21 -

 

 

 

 

Possible problems

 

Questions and notes

 
Safety & health measures

To be implemented by (date and person responsible)

 

Info

Other

 No.

1.        …..

2.        …..

3.        …..

4.        …..

5. …..

 

 

……….

 

  yes     no  ΰ

β

 

 No.

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

 

 

Completion check carried out on                                                       by                                                          

 

 

 


- 22 -

 

 

 

Information material for food shops

 

 

Rules on accident prevention

 

VBG 1                     General regulations

VBG 4                     Electrical systems and equipment

VBG 5                     Power-operated equipment

VBG 19                   Butchering machines

VBG 36                   Floor conveyors

VBG 74                   Ladders and stepladders

VBG 109 First aid

VBG 125 Workplace marking for the protection of safety and health

 

 

Rules on safety and health protection

 

R 1                          Rules on safety and health protection at work in shop premises (ZH 1/225)

R 3                          Rules on safety and health protection in the handling of money in shops (ZH 1/242)

 

 

Brochures, work aids

 

B 0                          The Berufsgenossenschaft’s catalogue of media for the retail trade

B 1                          State provisions on occupational safety and health

B 6                          Retail trade fittings which are subject by law to inspection

B 10                        How to improve safety at work

B 19                        Safety tips – a guide to safe working

B 36                        Instruction in safety at work – a guide to effective teaching

A 1                          Notice indicating membership of the Berufsgenossenschaft and giving advice on first aid

A 8                          Safe handling of money – hints to senior staff on how to teach it

A 39                        House rules on the handling of hazardous substances

A 110                      Safety Check, Shop Premises – general

A 111                      Safety Check, Food Shops

A 112                      Safety Check, Filling Stations

A 113                      Safety Check, Florists

A 114                      Safety Check,  (Motor) Cycle Shops and Repair Workshops

A 234                      Spiral-bound book “Inspection checklists for safety at work”

A 238                      Reference notes for in-house instruction

 

 

Leaflets

 

M 1                         Flammable liquids

M 2                         Hazardous substances

M 3                         Handling the daily deliveries

M 5                         Work on loading ramps

M 10                       Floors in work premises and areas liable to be slippery

M 11                       In-house traffic routes

M 12                       Standing ladders

M 16                       Meat processing tools

M 18                       Fire safety

M 22                       Food cutting machines

M 29                       Glass doors, glass walls


- 17a -

 

 

 

 

M 30                       Fire safety and the use of lights

M 35                       Fire extinguishers

M 36                       Electrical systems and equipment

M 44                       Safety on stairs

M 48                       Stepladders

M 53                       Leaning ladders

M 63                       Cardboard cutters

M 64                       Use of castor-mounted containers

M 67                       Fastenings for emergency exit doors

M 74                       Loading platforms

M 81                       Training first aiders

M 83                       Safety signs

M 85                       Coordinating the work of different firms

M 86                       Shop tills

M 90                       Safe shoes in the retail trade

M 94                       Personal protection for butchers

M 100                     Skin protection

M 101                     Correct sitting posture

M 102                     Working with VDUs

M 103                     Lifting and carrying

M 105                     Fitness breaks at work

 

 

Videos

 

V 9                          A raid on the shop – prevention is the best safeguard

 

 

Other rules, standards and regulations

 

ZH 1/190                Safety rules for artificial lighting at workplaces

GefStoffV               Hazardous Substances Order (ZH 1/220)

ZH 1/311                First aid advice for accidents

ZH 1/361                Guidelines for shelf-stacking appliances and systems

ZH 1/428                Guidelines on storage facilities and equipment

ArbStδttV              Workplaces Order and Workplace Guidelines (ASR) ( - contained in B 1)

LasthandhabV      Handling of Loads Order (- contained in B 1)

TRGS 531               Skin Hazards from Work in a Damp Environment

 


- 23 -

 

 

Excerpt from the Occupational Health and Safety Act (ArbSchG)

 

 

Art. 3

Basic obligations of the employer

 

(1)     The employer shall take the safety and health measures made necessary by factors affecting the safety and health of employees at work. He shall check that these measures are efficacious and shall if necessary adapt them to changing circumstances.  His aim thereby shall be to improve the safety and health protection afforded to his employees.

 

(2)     In planning and implementing measures under paragraph 1 the employer shall, taking due account of the nature of the work done and the number of employees,

 

1.                    organize the work properly and provide the requisite means and equipment

2.                    take steps to ensure that account is taken of the measures in all activities as appropriate, that they form an integral part of the business’s management structures and that employees are able to discharge their part of the responsibility for safety.

 

(1)     The employer may not pass on to employees the cost of measures under this Act.

 

Art. 5

Assessment of working conditions

 

(1)     The employer must, in an assessment of the hazards which employees may encounter in the course of their work, identify the safety and health measures which need to be taken.

 

(2)      The employer must make an assessment for each different type of activity. Where working conditions are similar it is sufficient to assess just one workplace or activity.

 

(3)     A hazard may arise in particular from

 

1.                    the design and fittings of premises and workplace

2.                    physical, chemical and biological effects

3.                    the design, choice and use of work aids, particularly substances, machinery, appliances and plant and the way in which these are handled

4.                    the design of work and manufacturing processes, working methods and hours and the interactions between these

5.                    insufficient employee skills and instruction.

 

Art. 6

Documentation

 

(1)     The employer must keep the required records, according to the type of activity and number of employees, which show the result of the hazard assessment, the occupational safety and health measures he has taken and the result of checking those measures. Where hazard situations are similar it is sufficient for the records to contain summarized data. Unless otherwise stipulated in other legal texts, paragraph 1 shall not apply to employers with ten employees or fewer;  where particular hazard situations obtain, the competent authority may order that records be kept. When determining the number of employees under sentence 3, part-time employees regularly working not more than 10 hours a week shall count as 0.25, those working not more than 20 hours shall count as 0.5 and those working not more than 30 hours shall count as 0.75.

 

(2)    The employer must record accidents on his premises in which an employee dies or is so badly injured that he dies or is fully or partially unfit for work for longer than three days.


 

 

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            ………………………………                        …………………………………....            ………………………………                        ………..…………………………..                            ………………………………                        ……………………………………

 

no ink stamps, please, if ordering by fax

 

 

To:

 

Berufsgenossenschaft fur den Einzelhandel

Technischer Aufsichtsdienst

Postfach 12 08

53002 Bonn

 

 

Fax: 0228 / 5406220

 

 

Please supply the following items free of charge

 

 

       Item                    Order No.                              Title