ColdZone: the effects of the cold, proper PPE, amble space for stocking and room for a step ladder to reach higher rollers/shelves, mould spotting and remediation. 

As the weather remains hot, many customers will be seeking chilled beverages from the Cold Zone. Working in temperatures between 0 – 4°C presents an additional workplace hazard. Below we will outline tips for maintaining your health and safety while working in the Cold Zone.

Before entering the Cold Zone:

• Inform your supervisor or co-worker so they know to find you in the event of emergency.
• Don all PPE: Properly fitted insulated gloves, light jacket, toque (longer durations).
• Inspect all equipment: step stools, dollies.

While in the Cold Zone:

• Assure stacks are not higher than shoulder height.
• Use a step stool to avoid lifting loads above shoulder height.
• Assure stacks are balanced so they don't pose a tipping hazard.
• Organize the cooler to ensure there's access to all products without overreaching.
• Ensure there is ample space to move safely between stacks and/or aisles.
• Ensure there's room between stock and shelving so you're not leaning backwards or reaching to the sides to get product on the shelves/racking.
• Keep pathways clear of stacks and cardboard debris.

Leaving the Cold Zone:

• Give a warning knock to avoid bumping into a co-worker on the other side of the door.

Other considerations:

• Duties should be rotated so that no one person has to spend prolonged time in the Cold Zone.
• Take microbreaks to warm yourself up and stretch.

Mould Exposure:
Anywhere moisture can collect presents the risk of mould growth. Moulds can pose a health risk, especially where there is an underlying immuno-condition. In order to combat mould in the Cold Zone, we recommend the following:

• Clean/wipe up any pooled moisture or condensation that has built up.
• If the moisture is coming from a leak, report the hazard to a supervisor to get fixed.
• If you believe you have been exposed to mould at work, report it to the WorkSafeBC Exposure registry.

For the full risk assessment, please see the attached documents: click here and here.
 
You have the right to refuse unsafe work. The process for refusal can be found here: https://ohs.bcgeu.ca/your-rights.
 
If you have question or concerns, please reach out to your steward or local chair. We can be reached at [email protected] or you can find us online at http://ohs.bcgeu.ca.
 
In solidarity
 
Component 5 OHS

Download PDF of notice here

UWU/MoveUP