6: Materials Handling, Storage, Use, and Disposal
“Working safely may get old, but so do those who practice it.” – Author Unknown
Overview
Handling materials (material, supplies, stock) is perhaps one activity that all workers will do at some point in a day’s work. No matter the industry, workers are required to access, move, transport, and store items necessary for accomplishing a task. Most workers with the exception of those who may have a physical impairment are expected to lift or carry at least 20 lbs. In the construction trades many workers are expected to manually lift or manage more than 50 lbs.
When materials are too large, heavy, or bulky to manage then material handling equipment is used to assist workers with moving and managing those materials. Equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, hoists, and cranes provide additional lifting power. When mechanical equipment is used to handle materials there are additional considerations. Safe work practices and procedures are added to the requirements for safe operation of the handling equipment, and for ensuring the equipment is operable.
When materials are handled, moved, and stored it is not only important to make sure they are delivered in tact but also to ensure the area or environment where materials are stored is maintained in a clean and orderly condition. This chapter will focus on the equipment necessary for safely handling materials and connect materials handling to storage and housekeeping practices at any worksite.
Chapter Objective:
- Understand the Importance of Proper Material Storage and Good Housekeeping Practices on Work Sites.
- Apply the Requirements for Using and Inspecting Rigging Equipment for Material Handling on Work Sites.
- Understand the Requirements of 1926 Subpart H Materials Handling, Storage, Use & Disposal and 1910 Subpart N Materials Handling and Storage.
Learning Outcome:
- Correctly apply the hierarchy of controls to rigging hazards.
- Explain the common practices in material handling storage and fire prevention methods.
Standards: 1926 Subpart H-Materials Handling Storage, Use, and Disposal, 1910 Subpart N-Materials Handling and Storage, 1926 Subpart F Fire Protection and Prevention
Key Terms:
Rigging, Slings, Splice,Synthetic
Mini-Lecture: Forklift Safety, Rigging Safety
Topic Required Time: 2 hrs; Independent Study and reflection 1 3/4 hour.
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