Food Manufacturer's: Hazards, Risks and Solutions
There are many hazards found within the food manufacturing sector, and it can be daunting to easily find
solutions to these challenges. Without a solid understanding of the dos and don'ts, and best practices, these
hazards can present significant risks in the workplace.
Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) and the Food Manufacturing Sector are working together to
develop solutions that address the top risks in the sector. This tool kit is the first step in consolidating current
resources and workplace best practices.
Top 10 Risks in the Food Manufacturing Sector
Inadequate Lockout/Tagout Loading and Unloading Trailers
Working with Mobile Equipment Ergonomics and Material Handling
Bypassing Safeguarding (Riding) Electric Pallet Trucks
Slips, Trips and Falls Pedestrians Struck by Mobile Equipment
Lack of Safeguarding Temporary Workers
Within these top 10 risks, there are 5 common topics. Within each topic, we have provided links to associated
WSPS resources, many of which are free! You can also visit our Resource Hub or connect with our on-call duty
consultant if you have additional questions.
Topics and Links to Resources
Machine Safeguarding and Lockout/Tagout
Challenge
Workers can be exposed to significant hazards when
machines are not properly safeguarded during operation or
locked out during maintenance activities. Exposure to these
hazards can result in serious injuries such as amputation of
limbs or death, and costly liabilities for employers.
Improper lockout/tagout may result in contact with objects
and equipment driven by hazardous energy. For lockout to
be effective, a clear, well-defined lockout program
supported by a documented lockout procedure, proper
training, and supervision, is essential.
Hazard prevention programs should include a review of
your machine guarding, pre-shift inspections, equipment
specific lockout procedures, and ongoing measurement of
program effectiveness. They should also clearly outline
responsibilities and refer to any applicable legislation and
standards.
Resources
Machine Safety Resource Hub
Machine Safety and Lockout Program Consulting
Machine Safety Training
Lockout Safety Resource Hub
Lockout Training
Nip point incident offers 6 lessons for workplaces
Job Aid - Robots
Safety Check: Meat Band Saw Safety
Inspecting Robot Systems: 7 Ways to Boost JHSC
Performance
6 Things You Need to Know About PSRs
Guideline For Pre-Start H&S Reviews (MLITSD)
