The smell of warm baked bread can dull one’s senses but this should not be case when identifying hazards in the workplace. Our walkabout highlighted a few too many. We put them to music! See how you can improve safety in your bakery while humming a tune.
On a recent audit I got up close and personal with some health and safety hazards in a bakery.
Although these may be commonplace, the scourge of industrial blindness – you see something every day so eventually you don’t see it – can often cause these hazards to lose focus. They are worth a closer look and consistent control. Maybe thinking about some tunes will help you.
"Slip sliding away"
Pan grease is a necessary additive but any spillages can cause havoc with the ability of your staff to stay up right. Non-slip shoes are only going to help so much. The worst thing you can use in this environment would be shoes covers as this will make it even more slippery for staff and visitors. They are not recommended.
Look for areas where you may have leaks – on the dough dividers, pan spraying. Make sure there is controlled application – enough is enough so don’t over do it. Also make sure maintenance staff are not over greasing moving parts.
Make sure the floor is a non-slip surface. Spills should be cleaned up right away and use the warning signs.
"I like to move it move it"
There are many moving parts especially in automated processes. Make sure there are machine guards in place to ensure staff cannot be struck or injured by moving parts such as dough brakes and conveyors. Check that the interlocks are working and that machines can be readily isolated. Display warning notices to remind operators and others of the dangers involved and provide training in safe systems of work during use and cleaning operations.
"Elevator" (Yes, there's a song with that title – go on Google it)
Ingredient bags can be 25kgs or more. Lifting this all day long will cause severe muscle strain and possible back injuries. While you might have some employees who see this as part of their “leg-day” work out, you should ensure you provide trolleys and hoists if possible. Also a personal trainer to make sure they are lifting with their legs to avoid injury.
"Hot stuff "
The word bake is synonymous with heat. We can’t bake without our ovens. That is why we warn employees about hot surfaces. Avoid walkways passing the ovens if possible. Provide oven gloves and warning signs to remind everyone including visitors and contractors who may be inside the bakery.
"Just breathe "
Flour dust exposure is a major problem in the bakery industry causing asthma and nose, throat and eye disorders. The handling of dough and other ingredients can cause dermatitis. Keep the dust levels down by minimal storage in production areas, providing adequate ventilation and enclosed mixing systems. Avoid dry brushing of floors and rather use vacuum cleaners. Don’t forget to provide the right kind of dust masks and gloves where necessary.
Hopefully these tips will have your bakery humming to a safer tune.
PS – can you identify the songs and the bands who sang them?
