Maintaining Clear Aisles When Moving Materials Mechanically

Does your job require you to move the materials mechanically? Whether it's a forklift, pallet jack, rail-based lifting machine, etc. tools such as these can prove invaluable in the modern-day workplace. Rather than forcing workers to manually lift and move materials, they allow workers to mechanically manipulate and move materials; thus, reducing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). However, it's important that employers and workers maintain clear aisles when moving materials mechanically.

Section 1926.416(b)(2) as described by the Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA) states the following: “ Working spaces, walkways, and similar locations shall be kept clear of cords so as not to create a hazard to employees .” Unfortunately, many workers turn a blind eye to this standard, assuming it yields little of no importance. But when debris and other forms of obstruction begin to accumulate in aisles and walkways, it creates a new element of danger, especially when mechanical material handling is involved.

One of the most common work-related injuries is falls on same level surfaces. This occurs when a worker slips or otherwise loses his or her balance on the same level. Same level falls are generally less severe than falls from an elevated surface, but they are also more common. While there are dozens of potential risk factors that play a role in same level falls, obstructed walkways is a prime factor. If a walkway is cluttered with tools or other obstructions, there's an increased risk of a worker falling and injuring him or herself.

As noted in OSHA's document on safe material handling , aisles, walkways and passageways must allow for sufficient clearance at areas such as loading docks, doors, turns, and “other parts of the workplace.” If a worker is operating a forklift, for instance, and needs to pass through a doorway, the doorway must be large enough – both height and width – to accommodate the forklift. This is essential for not only the function of the forklift, but also the safety of the operator and those around him or her. By maintaining proper clearance to accommodate material handling machines, there's a lower risk of injury attributed to “struck by an object.”

It's also important to note that excess materials should not be stored in aisles, walkways or other passes through which workers travel. Many companies will stack up their excess materials in any open area, whether it's a storage room or aisle. When materials are placed in aisles, though, it increases the risk of falls.