Young Retail Workers

Overview

A retail business sells items directly to the people who use them. This can include anything from specialty food stores, department stores, or auto stores. Most people think that retail businesses are safe places to work, and mostly they are. However, each year thousands of young retail workers are injured, and some even die. The more you know about hazards, the more you can take part in creating a safe work environment.

• Retail workplaces may have hazards that could injure workers.
• Employers and workers can identify/prevent potential work injuries.
• A supervisor can give safety training using clear communication.

Tips to avoid retail hazards

Employers can share the following information with young workers:

Slips, trips, and falls

• Slips, trips, and falls are common causes of injuries in retail stores. Learn more about this retail hazard.
• Watch for cluttered or obstructed walkways. Stay within the designated walk areas, if possible.

Equipment, tools, and supplies

• Follow all warning labels and signs on equipment and posted in the workplace.
• Cut away from your body when using knives and box cutters. Personal protective equipment, like mesh gloves, can protect your hands.
• Stack materials carefully so that they won't slide or fall.
• Know what is going on in the surrounding area. Look out for people, boxes, forklifts, and other moving objects in your work area.
• Equipment can be noisy. If working in a noisy area, use hearing protection like earplugs, or earmuffs if needed.
• Talk to a supervisor if there is a potential hazard or a situation that is uncomfortable.

Overworking

• Pace yourself to avoid muscle strain or another injury.
• Lifting a heavy or awkward object? Keep it close to your body; avoid twisting/bending; keep your back straight; lift with your legs.
• Consider getting help from someone who knows about the job or tools/equipment that can be used to help lift/carry something heavy.
• Consider getting someone to help pick up or carry heavy items. That divides the weight between two people, making it easier and safer to lift.
• Talk with a supervisor if a box/container seems too heavy/awkward to lift.

Violence

Employers should:

• Keep windows from being covered up by signs or displays.
• Make sure the place you work is well lit inside and out.
• Make sure alarms and cameras work.
• Inform their staff about the security and safety plan.
• Make sure all workers know which doors should stay locked. Check those doors often.