July 22, 2020

The coronavirus pandemic has changed the way we work across all industries. We provide workers’ compensation and loss prevention services to over 70,000 business in Texas and their 1.5 million workers, including numerous warehouse workers and stock associates across industries. Our team of safety experts work closely across all industries to ensure we provide you with resources to prevent workplace incidents, and that service is more important than ever. Depending on local mandates, many Texas businesses are starting to reopen or are operating at limited capacity, while others with the ability to conduct work from home continue to do so. Essential businesses, including warehouses, distribution centers and retail stores, cannot operate without the majority of employees on-site.

In this article series – Working safely during COVID-19 – we’re providing safety tips for industries with employees working on-site.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the world is relying on the availability of certain goods more than ever. From stocking the grocery store shelves to unloading 18-wheeler trailers, employees are working around the clock to keep the supply chain moving. While this can have a positive effect on business revenue and job security, it also results in a greater workload for employees moving the goods. It’s important to prioritize hygiene as well as strain and sprain prevention during this busy time.

Implement COVID-19 controls

Social distancing can be more difficult to manage when employees don’t have a stationary workstation, but there are several methods to consider.

• Stagger work schedules and break times so that there are less employees in the same location at once.
• Enforce face covering usage in line with your local ordinances.
• Mark 6-foot distances on the floor where employees may be working in a line or row.
• Install physical barriers such as plastic partitions where distancing is not possible.
• Provide disposable or washable gloves for employees who are touching shared surfaces, equipment or items.

Don’t forget to prioritize ergonomics

Employees are likely feeling the pressure to move more materials at a faster pace. Take this opportunity to reinforce good ergonomics.

• Share heavy loads; use an equipment lift or get help from a coworker when the load is too heavy.
• Always lift and lower using your legs instead of your back.
• Keep the load below your line of sight to help prevent slips and trips.
• While carrying materials, turn your entire body to rotate instead of twisting at the waist.

Equipment safety

Forklifts, pallet jacks and other equipment lifts can reduce strain hazards and increase efficiency, but they must be used safely.

• Sanitize equipment before and after use.
• Keep loads under the weight capacity of the equipment lift.
• Take the time to secure each load and make sure the weight is distributed evenly.
• When using a forklift, always wear a seat belt and follow the speed limit.
• Face the direction you’re moving in.

General preventative measures

Basic hygiene practices are crucial for preventing the spread of COVID-19 and other illnesses.

• Avoid touching your face with unclean hands.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds before eating and drinking.
• If soap is not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
• Remember to always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or the inside of your elbow.
• Stay home if you have any symptoms of illness.

Please be aware that the COVID-19 pandemic is still developing. The details provided here are based on information available at the time of development. For the most up-to-date information regarding the virus and safety precautions, visit cdc.gov/coronavirus.

Current events should not overshadow basic workplace safety. Health and safety are everyone’s responsibility and should be prioritized each and every day. Texas Mutual is committed to this message and helping our policyholders get their employees home safely each day. For more resources, visit our Coronavirus Resources page or contact our safety services support center at 844-WORKSAFE (967-5723).