candle factory May 8, 2023

OiRA Report: “candle factory”

Contents

Risks that have been identified but do NOT have an Action Plan

Hazards/problems that have been "parked" and are still to be dealt with

Hazards/problems that have been managed or are not present in your

organisation

Risks that have been identified but do NOT have an Action

Plan
1 Occupational Safety and Health Management
1.4 Workplace accidents and incidents are not reported and
corrective measures are not taken
This is a high priority risk.
An accident is defined as an event that causes bodily or mental harm or loss of life. In
accordance with national laws and/or practices, employers shall keep a list of occupational
accidents and draw up reports on occupational accidents suffered by their workers.
The registration and analysis of accidents/incidents provide a basis for taking corrective
measures in order to avoid future risks and improve working conditions.
More information: OSH Wiki, Accidents and incidents.

1.5 The appropriate surveillance of the health of workers is not

ensured.
This is a high priority risk.
According to European legislation, measures must be set in conformity with national
legislation and/or practices to ensure appropriate surveillance of the health of workers,
depending on the risks relating to their health and safety in the workplace. Specific risks
that could require health surveillance are for instance exposure to biological hazards
(working with raw hides), high noise levels, and chemicals. Health surveillance includes
pre-employment health checks (medical aptitude), periodic examinations and follow-up
examinations.
Special attention must be given to risk groups such as pregnant workers, younger and
older workers, workers with pre-existing health conditions, and new and temporary workers.
More information: OSH Wiki, Health screening and surveillance

1.6 Workers are not informed and trained on the risks and
prevention measures in the workplace
This is a high priority risk.
Workers must receive sufficient and suitable training in health and safety that takes into
account their tasks and function. The right training will allow the workers to prevent risks
associated with their tasks. Especially young workers, apprentices and also temporary
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workers must be informed and trained since they often lack experience and are less
acquainted with the workplace.
Health and safety training should be given at regular intervals and in addition when:
 workers are hired
 functions or workplaces are adapted or changed
 there are changes in the working process, e.g. due to new
equipment/machinery or due to the use of new chemicals.
Furthermore, training must be adapted to changes in risks and new emerging risks.  
More information: OSH Wiki, OSH Training

1.7 When purchasing raw materials/chemicals/machines/work

clothes or equipment no attention is paid to occupational safety
and health aspects.
This is a high priority risk.
Giving consideration in advance to occupational health and safety requirements will prevent
costs in the long run. Examples are:
 taking care that machines/tools are constructed in a way to allow ergonomic
working positions (e.g. the machine can be adapted to the workers size, the
machine is not noisy or vibrating, ...)
 trying to substitute highly hazardous chemicals with less hazardous
chemicals. See for example the Subsport portal for further ideas.
 Purchasing machinery and personal protective equipment with a CE marking,
indicating that the product meets EU safety, health and environmental
protection standards.

1.8 There is no policy within the company on how to deal with

stress, violence and harassment.
This is a high priority risk.
Workers experience stress if there is an imbalance between the work demands and the
physical and mental resources they have to cope with these demands. Also violence,
bullying and harassment can lead to stress. Therefore a stress prevention policy should be
set up tackling the broad range of work related psychosocial risk factors such as:
 inadequate support: the lack of support from managers or co-workers;
 lack of personal control: having inadequate say over how the work is done;
 poor relationships, including harassment;
 excessive demands or conflicts;
 role conflict or lack of clarity.
More information: E-guide to managing stress and psychosocial risks

1.9 Adequate personal protective equipment is not always

available
This is a high priority risk.
If it's not possible to reduce the risks in the workplace by elimination or technical control
measures, personal protective equipment (PPE) should be made available to protect
workers. Examples of PPE are slip resistant safety shoes, safety gloves or ear protection.
Workers should be informed/trained when to wear PPE (tasks, areas). All areas where PPE
are required should be marked accordingly. 

2 Building & floors

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2.1 Housekeeping practices are not in place ensuring a regularly

cleaning and maintenance of the building(s)
This is a high priority risk.
The maintenance of buildings and equipment is an important element of good
housekeeping. It involves keeping buildings and equipment in working order and in good
repair. Cracked floor tiles, defective plumbing, faulty lighting make a workplace unsafe and
unhealthy. A good housekeeping programme ensures the inspection, maintenance, upkeep
and repair of the building.
Furthermore, the employer should ensure that the premises, including the toilets, are
maintained in a clean condition and that the floors are maintained regularly for avoiding
slips, trips and falls. For this purpose, a cleaning schedule could be used detailing what
places, when/how often, by whom, and how. 

2.3 Floors/corridors are not kept clear of cables, machines,

objects.
This is a high priority risk.
Fixed or temporary obstacles that can cause people to slip or trip can be found anywhere in
buildings. In particular they cause a risk when placed in passages. Walkways, stairs and
corridors are not to be used as temporary storage areas.
It is important to keep working areas clear and tidy. In particular, around bench saws and
drop saws special attention should be paid to objects that could cause slips, trips and falls.
More information:
 Preventing slips, trips and falls (UK Leather.org)
 Napo-film on slips, trips and falls

2.6 Walk ways and safety zones around work areas are not well
marked.
This is a high priority risk.
Walkways are designed to keep pedestrians a safe distance from the hazards of
machinery, equipment and the manufacturing process. These walkways should be clearly
marked and if necessary separated from danger zones by protective barriers or guardrails. 

2.10 The electricity, gas and water supplies are not in order and/or
are not well maintained.
This is a high priority risk.
Ensure that the electrical system, as well as the gas and water supplies are safe. Some
examples: all the exposed conductive parts are connected to the protective earthing
system; all safety devices and switches are in place and they work well; there are
measures in place to protect electrical equipment from water; ...
The electricity, gas and water supplies must comply with the relevant safety regulations and
be maintained by competent people in accordance with regulations. There should be
restricted access to electricity, gas and water premises.

2.12 Sanitary facilities are not available and/or well maintained

This is a high priority risk.
Workers should be provided with the following facilities, if and when necessary in view of
their work and taking the specific national legal provisions into account:
 changing room (dressing room) with the possibility of secure storage for
personal property; separate changing rooms or separate use of changing
rooms for men and women;
 break rooms; 
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 toilets and washing rooms with hot and cold or mixed taps and soap and
towels.

2.15 Ladders are not used in a safe manner

This is a high priority risk.
Falls from ladders may have severe and even fatal consequences. 
 unsuitable ladders
 defective ladders
 unstable conditions/unsecured ladders
 loss of balance
 slipping from ladder rungs
 carrying bulky objects
Check the following issues:
 Alternatives to replace the use of ladders.
 Ladders are of good quality and suitable for the task to be carried out.
 Ladders are protected against slipping and instability.
 Ladders are regularly inspected and maintained. 
 Training should be provided on the safe use of ladders.

2.16 Walking ways and work surfaces at height are not protected
by guardrails
This is a high priority risk.
Walking ways and work surfaces at height present serious risks for workers. Walking or
working near unprotected edges, holes, shafts can lead to falls. Also falling objects are a
major concern and cause injuries to workers working below. An appropriate guardrail (top
rail, mid rail, toeboard) or barrier has to be installed. If this is not possible, workers have to
wear a personal fall protection. 

3 Workplace transport
3.1 Not all traffic routes are laid out in a safe way. Some might not
ensure easy and appropriate access for pedestrians and vehicles.
This is a high priority risk.
Routes for pedestrian traffic and/or goods traffic must be dlaid out in accordance with the
number of potential users and the type of undertaking. If workplace transport systems are
used on traffic routes, sufficient safety clearance must be provided. Where possible,
pedestrian traffic and vehicle traffic should be segregated.
More information: Osh wiki, Workplace transport

3.2 Correct functioning of forklifts is not checked regularly.

This is a high priority risk.
When purchasing forklifts, it's important to check if the forklift meets the essential safety
and health requirements (CE-marking). Forklifts must be maintained and inspected
according the manufacturer’s recommendations. Furthermore, it's important that every
forklift driver carries out a check before starting (pre-start check of lights, steering, brakes,
hydraulic controls, safety equipment, etc. ).
Forklifts must give (visual and audible) warning signals when moving backwards.

3.3 Forklifts are not only used by qualified and trained staff
This is a high priority risk.
All forklift drivers should be competent based on experience and adequate training.
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Measures must be taken that only qualified staff can use forklifts.
Basic rules for safe driving include
 respect speed limits, drive slowly, especially at intersections or other blind spots
 use the seat belt
 always keep hands and feet inside the drivers cabin
 make sure loads are correctly stacked and positioned across both forks
 operate the forklift in reverse when it improves visibility

3.4 Loading bays are not equipped with handrails or other

safeguards to prevent falls
This is a high priority risk.
A loading bay is an area where goods are transferred from vehicles such as lorries to the
building. To prevent falls, all platforms in loading bays should be equipped with a handrail
or other safeguards such as barriers, fences. 

4 First aid and emergency procedures

4.1 Emergency procedures, first aid provisions and escape routes
4.1.1 There are no emergency procedures nor an emergency plan
This is a high priority risk.
Emergency planning and training directly influences the outcome of an emergency
situation. Leather and tanning companies with well-prepared workers and well-developed
response plans are likely to experience less structural damage and fewer or less severe
injuries in case of emergencies. An emergency plan should be in place and communicated
to all staff.
Emergency procedures and planning cover items such as:
 the description of the emergencies that may occur;
 alarm procedures and means for alerting emergency services;
 specific emergency procedures for high risk tasks such as working in confined
spaces;
 emergency escape plans including floor plans and emergency assembly areas;
 overview of first aid facilities, first aid equipment, fire fighting equipment;  
 roles and responsibilities of dedicated staff such as fire wardens, first aiders
and of other staff members;
 contact details of external emergency services;
 …
More informationOccupational safety and health aspects of leather manufacture, chapter 7
Dealing with emergencies

4.1.2 Adequate first-aid equipment arrangements are not in place

This is a high priority risk.
In the workplace people can suffer injuries are be taken ill. In that case it is important to
take immediate action and call emergency services in serious cases. It is required to
provide adequate first aid equipment and facilities. The presence of trained first-aiders in
the workplace allows to quickly responding to medical emergencies.
The first aid arrangements depend on the circumstances and risks in the workplace. In
tanneries, accidents such as cuts, bruises but also injuries from working with chemicals
(spills of acids and alkalis on skin or eyes) are common. Therefor first aid kits have to be
available and eyewash stations and emergency showers should be installed.
More informationOccupational safety and health aspects of leather manufacture, chapter 7
Dealing with emergencies
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4.1.3 Emergency exits and escape routes are not clearly marked and/or
obstructed
This is a high priority risk.
In case of an emergency, everyone should be able to quickly escape. Therefore, there
must be sufficient emergency exits and all emergency doors as well as escape routes
should be clearly marked and unobstructed at all times.
The emergency exit can be opened immediately without it being necessary to move
anything out of the way or to fetch a key. Escape routes that do not serve as normal exits
have to be clearly marked with the appropriate signage (green rectangle rescue signs with
white symbols). Escape routes must always be lit. In the event of a power failure, an
emergency lighting system must guarantee the visibility of the escape routes.
More informationOccupational safety and health aspects of leather manufacture, chapter 7
Dealing with emergencies
Safety signs on the ISO platform
Napo-film on safety signs

4.1.4 Emergency procedures are not clearly displayed

This is a high priority risk.
Emergency procedures summarising the evacuation instructions as well as evacuation
maps have to be clearly displayed at various locations. The maps show persons their
current location and where the closest emergency exits are located. A recommended
pedestrian route to the exit is indicated.

4.1.5 An evacuation drill is not held at least once a year

This is a high priority risk.
Drills are the best indicator that an emergency evacuation will go smoothly and
successfully.  Drills are held to familiarise workers with evacuation procedures and to make
the response a matter of established routine.
A well-planned and executed fire drill will confirm understanding of the training and provide
helpful information for future training. The responsible person should determine the
possible objectives of the drill such as to:
 identify any weaknesses in the evacuation strategy;
 test the procedure following any recent alteration or changes to working
practices;
 familiarise new members of staff with procedures; and
 test the arrangements for disabled people.
More informationOSH Wiki, Emergency drills and exercises

4.2 Fire risk

4.2.2 Not all fire extinguishing facilities equipment is inspected
regularly
This is a high priority risk.
Portable fire extinguishers must be inspected regularly. The inspection should ensure:
 Fire extinguishers are in their assigned place
 Fire extinguishers are not blocked or hidden
 Fire extinguishers are mounted properly
 Pressure gauges show adequate pressure
 Pin and seals are in place
 Fire extinguishers show no visual sign of damage or abuse
 Nozzles are free of blockage.
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Maintenance, inspection and testing of an extinguisher are the responsibility of the

employer.
Portable extinguishers are required to be CE marked in accordance with the requirements
of the Pressure Equipment Directive (2014/68/EC) as far as pressure risk is concerned.
European standards EN3-7 and EN3-10 cover fire performance and technical
characteristics.
More information
Occupational safety and health aspects of leather manufacture, chapter 7: dealing with
emergencies

5 Environmental conditions
5.3 The temperature at the workplace (indoor) isn't uniform and
constant.
This is a high priority risk.
Minimal conditions in terms of temperature must be observed. These conditions must be
fulfilled taking into account the task characteristics and the level of physical activity
required. Working in excessively hot or cold conditions can lead to adverse health effects
ranging from discomfort to serious illness. Also, wearing personal protective equipment
could increase the risk of heat stress.
If workers are exposed to cold temperatures e.g. working in cold storage, work areas that
are open to the outside, work clothing that is suited for working in cold environments should
be provided.  
More information
Occupational safety and health aspects of leather manufacture, chapter 5 Workplace
environment and conditions

5.4 Exposure to noise is neither prevented nor controlled

This is a high priority risk.
Noise can cause considerable hearing damage. The intensity (loudness) and exposure
duration determine whether noise is hazardous. Possible sources of noise are machinery,
equipment, installations, environmental noise, etc.
A rule of thumb to determine whether or not noise levels are too high: workers should be
able to hear each other at one metre distance without raising their voice.
Measures to reduce noise levels and limit exposure to noise include:
 purchasing less noisy machinery/equipment;
 installing enclosures around machinery;
 using absorptive materials within the building;
 ensuring technical maintenance of machinery and equipment;
 job rotation between noisy and less noisy activities;
 identifying and marking hearing protection zones (areas where hearing
protection must be worn);
 providing personal protective equipment.
Information on the noise levels of machinery can be obtained from the supplier. Machines
with CE-marking should be accompanied by a noise emission declaration.
More information
Occupational safety and health aspects of leather manufacture, chapter 5 Workplace
environment and conditions
OSHwiki, Noise
Napo in stop that noise

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7 Use of knives
7.1 Knives are not suitable for the work to be carried out
This is a high priority risk.
Knives are a major cause of injury. The use of knives should be eliminated or reduced as
much as possible (e.g. automatic cutting, reduce trimming).
All knives in use should be suitable for the tasks. Consider also the use of a safer knife:
knives with:
 Retractable blades
 Round-ended blades
 Blades with a reduced cutting edge
 Handles which allow a firm and comfortable grip
 Left and right-handed types
More information 
Don't cut it, A guide to knife safety in the footwear and leather industries, UK Leather

7.4 Knives are not safely stored

This is a high priority risk.
When a knife is not in use, whether it be placed on a bench, hung up or kept in a drawer
the blade should be guarded, e.g. in a scabbard or knife holder. Discarded blades should
be disposed of in a suitable container.
More information 
Don't cut it, A guide to knife safety in the footwear and leather industries, UK Leather

8 Use of machinery
8.1 Use and maintenance of machinery
8.1.3 Instruction manuals are not available for all machines
This is a high priority risk.
All manufacturers must provide instructions on how to safely install, use, adjust and
maintain machinery. This instruction manual can be used as a guide for providing the
operators with the necessary information, instruction and training tailored to your
workplace. 
More information
OSHwiki, Safety of machinery and work equipment.
EU Commission, Machinery.

8.1.4 Operators don't have sufficient space for safely operating

machinery
This is a high priority risk.
Workers must be provided with safe access that is suitable for the work they perform in, on
and around machinery and equipment. Sufficient space is needed for safe access.
Issues to consider:
 is there enough space to change posture?
 is there adequate space around the machine to allow safe and easy access?
During operation but also during cleaning, maintenance tasks
 is the work area floor around machinery in good condition, kept free from
tripping and slipping hazards? non-slip floor surfaces?
More information
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Guidance on the application of the essential health and safety requirements on ergonomics
set out in the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC
OSHwiki, Safety of machinery and work equipment.
EU Commission, Machinery.

8.1.5 Mechanical hazards of machinery are not controlled

This is a high priority risk.
The rotating and moving parts, sharp edges, and hot surfaces of machinery are risks for the
workers in the leather and tanning sector. These mechanical hazards can be controlled by
technical measures such as guards or protective devices. Guards are physical barriers that
prevent access to the danger zone, e.g. a casing, a shield, a cover, a screen, a door, an
enclosure or a fence.
Protective devices are devices that stop the machine if the operator or another worker
enters the danger area while the machine is working e.g. presence-sensing devices (light
curtains, photo-electric devices, pressure-sensing mats).
OSHwiki, Safety of machinery and work equipment.
EU Commission, Machinery.

8.1.6 Emission levels of dust and other airborne contaminants of

machinery are not controlled
This is a high priority risk.
During the leather production process, the use of machinery can result into emissions of
dust or other airborne contaminants affecting the health of the workers. As a preventive
measure machines that are known to emit airborne contaminants (e.g. dry shaving, buffing,
dedusting, spraying machines) have to be equipped with local extraction and exhaust
ventilation.
More information
OSHwiki, Safety of machinery and work equipment
Occupational safety and health aspects of leather manufacture, chapter 4 Safety of
machines and installations
EU Commission, Machinery.

8.1.8 Lockout Tagout procedures are not practiced for maintenance

activities
This is a high priority risk.
Working on operational equipment and machinery during activities such as maintenance,
adjustments, servicing, clearing obstructions is extremely dangerous. Machinery can be
activated unexpectedly. Only a secure isolation from all sources of energy can protect the
workers.
Lock out Tag out procedures consist of isolating the machine of its energy source including
releasing any residual hazardous energy that might be present, and securing the isolation
point by locking it.
More information
Napo in … safe maintenance
OSHwiki, Basic rules when conducting maintenance work

8.2 Specific types of machinery

8.2.1 Access to rotating process machine drums is not always secured.
This is a high priority risk.
Ensure that the working area round rotating drums cannot be accessed. Drums must only
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operate when security gates are closed. When a drum door is open the drum must
automatically be stopped.
More information
OSHwiki, Safety of machinery and work equipment
Occupational safety and health aspects of leather manufacture, chapter 4 Safety of
machines and installations

8.2.3 Not all workers working with the reciprocating roller machines or
coming close to them, wear appropriate clothes.
This is a high priority risk.
To prevent workers being entangled in machines it´s indispensable that all workers dealing
with the machines as well as all workers possibly coming close to the machines, wear
appropriate clothes. Appropriate clothes should be tight and in the case where workers
have long hair, they are supposed to wear a cap or a hairnet covering all their hair.
More information
OSHwiki, Safety of machinery and work equipment
Occupational safety and health aspects of leather manufacture, chapter 4 Safety of
machines and installations

9 Use of chemicals
9.1 Handling and storage of chemicals
9.1.4 SDS and labels are not available in national language.
This is a high priority risk.
Information on chemicals such as labels and SDS should be accessible for all staff working
with chemicals. Therefore, labels and SDS should be available in the national language(s).
The information from the safety data sheet should also be adapted into workplace
instructions that give practical information on how to handle and use chemicals in the daily
routine. Special attention is needed for the information and instruction of migrant workers. 
More information
EU-OSHA, Dangerous substances and successful workplace communication
OSHwiki, Safety Data Sheet
Occupational safety and health aspects of leather manufacture, chapter 3 Safety in use of
chemicals
ECHA, Safety data sheets and exposure scenarios

9.1.5 The recommendations outlined by the SDS are not implemented

This is a high priority risk.
It is important that the recommendations/suggestions outlined by the SDS are
implemented/taken into account. For instance, the recommendations regarding
 the precautions to be taken with regard to storage, use and handling;  
 the procedures to control the exposure of workers to the substance and the
required characteristics of the personal protective equipment;
 the information relative to transport
More information
OSHwiki, Safety Data Sheet
Occupational safety and health aspects of leather manufacture, chapter 3 Safety in use of
chemicals

9.1.6 Not all workers understand the information labels of chemicals

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This is a high priority risk.

All packaging, cans and flasks must be labelled. This allows the workers to identify the
product and its conditions of use. On the labels, pictograms as well as short statements are
shown indicating the risks as well as the safety measures for the use and storage of the
chemical substance. Workers must therefore understand the meaning of the pictograms
and be instructed on how to read a label. 
The following information can be found on the label:
 1 or more hazard pictograms that give a quick indication of the hazards
associated with the chemical e.g. flammable; - the hazard statements give
more detailed information on the hazard;
 the precautionary statements give advice to ensure safe use of your
chemicals. 
More information
Napo in … danger chemicals
ECHA CLP Pictograms
Occupational safety and health aspects of leather manufacture, chapter 3 Safety in use of
chemicals

9.1.8 Workers do not always use the personal protective equipment

(clothing, gloves, glasses, masks) when required.
This is a high priority risk.
Personal protective equipment should only be used when other measures are not
sufficiently effective or not possible. In that case, workers should be instructed to use PPE
in order to avoid exposure to chemical substances. The effectiveness of PPE strongly
depends on its appropriateness to the work process and proper use.
The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) of a product or substance may be helpful in selecting the
appropriate PPE.
More information
Occupational safety and health aspects of leather manufacture, chapter 3 Safety in use of
chemicals
OSHwiki, Hierarchy of controls applied to dangerous substances
Napo in … danger chemicals

9.1.10 Workers are unaware of possible risks of release of hazardous

substances produced as by-products by the chemical reactions
This is a high priority risk.
In cases of release of hazardous substances are used, instructions have to be provided to
workers in order to prevent any risks of exposure. Workers must be aware of possible risks
of release of hazardous substances from processes.
More information
EU-OSHA, Dangerous substances e-tool
Occupational safety and health aspects of leather manufacture, chapter 3 Safety in use of
chemicals

9.2 Specific hazardous substances

9.2.1 Flammable chemicals are not separately stored and kept away
from sources of ignition
This is a high priority risk.
Flammable chemicals should be stored and used well away from working and storage
areas. Good ventilation has to be ensured and all the obvious ignition sources (sparks, hot
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surfaces, etc.) have to be removed from the storage and handling areas. Spills from
flammable liquids have to be contained and cleaned up immediately. All staff must be
informed about the emergency response in case of spillages. 
More information
Occupational safety and health aspects of leather manufacture, chapter 3 Safety in use of
chemicals

9.2.4 Exposure to glutaraldehyde is not controlled

This is a medium priority risk.
Control concentrations of glutaraldehyde vapour, ensure sufficient ventilation and avoid
skin and eye contact by wearing of eye protection and protective clothing. If possible use
products with glutaraldhyde in closed systems only.
More information
Occupational safety and health aspects of leather manufacture, chapter 3 Safety in use of
chemicals

9.2.5 Build up of hydrogen sulphide is not ruled out.

This is a low priority risk.
Avoid formation of highly toxic hydrogen sulphide gas. Effluent treatment and disposal
systems must be designed so as to ensure neutralisation of acids before disposal to the
sewer. Avoid building of hydrogen sulphide in pre- treatment basin. Separate alkaline from
acidic partial flows. Avoid using the same drums for liming and pickling. Rinse hides well
after liming and deliming before pickling
Workers receive proper instructions and information for avoiding the exposure to hydrogen
sulphide. Workers receive instructions on emergency plan to avoid risks to health and
safety
More information
How to deal with hydrogen sulphide gas
UNIDO on-line course - How to deal with hydrogen sulphide gas
Safety Video - How to deal with hydrogen sulphide

12 Physical workload
12.1 Risks related to manual handling of loads are not prevented
This is a medium priority risk.
Manual handling of heavy loads such as loading and unloading of raw hides, frequent
bending for lifting, carrying bulky loads, repetitive movements for lifting, pulling or pushing,
can lead to health problems and affect the musculoskeletal system. Health problems such
as low back pain can result in long sickness absence.
Tasks that require lifting with repeated bending of the trunk, heavy or bulky loads, carrying
over long distances are even more hazardous.
Check the following issues:
 Workplace design: sufficient room for moving/manoeuvring lifting aids,
improving the layout of workstations e.g. re-arranging workstations to reduce
the number of manual handling tasks, adjusting the working height (avoid lifting
from below the knees and above shoulder height)
 Lifting and handling aids (e.g. conveyor belts, height-adjustable platform for
palletizing skins) should be provided.
 Workers should be informed about the risks related to manual handling and
informed/trained in the correct way to handle loads (use of lifting/handling aids,
correct lifting techniques). 
More information
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OSHwiki, Strategies to tackle musculoskeletal disorders at work

Napo in lighten the load
EU-OSHA, E-fact 44 - Checklist for the prevention of manual handling risks

12.2 Risks related to prolonged standing and awkward working

postures are not prevented
This is a high priority risk.
Prolonged standing can lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) especially in
combination with postures such as bending the trunk forward/backward or twisting the
trunk. Also other awkward working postures such as prolonged work with raised arms,
bending of the neck, over-reaching of arms/fingers are physically very demanding
especially in combination with repetitive movements and high force (e.g. hammering).
Check the following issues:
 work/tasks: check if work/tasks can be altered, e.g. by alternating
sitting/standing.
 workstation: e.g. ergonomic adjustments (limit the depth of conveyors, raise
and tilt worktops), sufficient space (working in confined or small spaces limits
the motion range)
 work organisation: e.g. job rotation, breaks
 equipment: tools with extendible handles, sit-stand stools, comfortable
footwear 
More information
OSHwiki, Strategies to tackle musculoskeletal disorders at work
Napo in lighten the load
EU-OSHA, E-fact 45 - Checklist for preventing bad working postures

Hazards/problems that have been "parked" and are still to

be dealt with
2.8 Safety signs are used when necessary.
This is a high priority risk.

Hazards/problems that have been managed or are not

present in your organisation
1.1 There is a systematic approach for managing occupational
safety and health
This is a high priority risk.

1.2 Somebody has been designated to support OSH management

This is a high priority risk.

1.3 Workers and/or their representatives are consulted on

occupational safety and health matters
This is a high priority risk.

1.10 Information on safety and health is exchanged with

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contractors
This is a high priority risk.

2.2 Excess products, waste materials etc. are cleaned up rapidly

after finalising a work process.
This is a high priority risk.

2.4 Throughout the building the floors are level and slip-proof.
This is a high priority risk.

2.5 There is sufficient and safe storage for waste and materials
This is a high priority risk.

2.7 Walkways and passages are sufficiently wide and well lit
This is a high priority risk.

2.9 Danger zones are clearly indicated and access is limited to

authorized personnel
This is a high priority risk.

2.13 There is a break room with sufficient seating present.

This is a medium priority risk.

2.14 All staircases have a handrail and good slip resistance

properties
This is a high priority risk.

4.2.1 Fire safety measures and equipment are in place

This is a high priority risk.

4.2.3 An adequate number of people are trained for the proper use of
the fire extinguishers.
This is a high priority risk.

5.1 There is always sufficient and adequate lighting at the

workplace for the activities to be carried out
This is a high priority risk.

5.2 The air at the workplace is fresh, sufficiently humid or dry.

This is a high priority risk.

6 Working with raw hides and skins

6.1 Workers always use the appropriate personal protective
equipment.
This is a high priority risk.

6.2 For employees dealing with raw hides and skins it is strictly
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forbidden to eat food and drink at the work place.

This is a high priority risk.

6.3 Facilities for disinfection are provided.

This is a high priority risk.

7.2 Knives are kept clean and in good condition

This is a high priority risk.

7.3 When using knives, workers respect the safe working

practices
This is a high priority risk.

8.1.1 Machine operators are informed and trained on the safe use of
machinery
This is a high priority risk.

8.1.2 Machines are CE marked

This is a high priority risk.

8.1.7 Machines are checked on a regularly basis and correctly

maintained
This is a high priority risk.

8.1.9 Maintenance work is only done by trained and authorised

personnel
This is a high priority risk.

8.2.4 The motion of rollers of the reciprocating roller machines is

secured by appropriate safety devices
This is a high priority risk.

8.2.6 Workers at drying machines are protected from burns.

This is a high priority risk.

9.1.1 An inventory of chemical products has been set up

This is a high priority risk.

9.1.2 An assessment of the exposure scenario of all hazardous

substances and mixtures has been carried out
This is a high priority risk.

9.1.3 The Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are available for all chemicals used
This is a high priority risk.

9.1.7 Workers are trained in handling and using hazardous chemicals

This is a high priority risk.

9.1.9 Pregnant and breastfeeding women are protected from risks

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related to the use of hazardous chemicals

This is a high priority risk.

9.2.3 Exposure to formaldehyde is controlled

This is a high priority risk.

9.2.6 Chemical substances that may cause an allergic reaction are

handled in a safe way
This is a high priority risk.

10 Office workplaces
10.1 Office workstations are properly set-up
This is a high priority risk.

10.2 Staff are informed on the use of their office workstation

This is a high priority risk.

10.3 After 2 hours of computer work, breaks of a minimum of 10

minutes are taken.
This is a high priority risk.

10.4 Printers and copiers that are used a lot are positioned well
away from workers.
This is a high priority risk.

11 Organisational aspects
11.1 Tasks are organised and assigned in time.
This is a high priority risk.

11.2 Workers´ education and training match well with the work
requirements.
This is a high priority risk.

11.3 Workload is well organised (work over / underloads are

avoided)
This is a low priority risk.

11.4 Workers are supportive and help each other when necessary.
This is a high priority risk.

12.3 Equipment and devices the workers have to work with meet
ergonomic requirements
This is a high priority risk.

Ω Custom risks
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 candle factory May 8, 2023

Consultation of workers
The undersigned hereby declare that the workers have been consulted on the content of
this document.
On behalf of the employer: On behalf of the workers:

Date:

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December 16, 2021.