Did You Know???

A clean, organized workspace is one of the most effective ways to prevent injuries and maintain compliance with Oregon OSHA, ORS/OAR, and Oregon Fire Code (OFC) requirements. 

As part of the Courthouse Safety Committee’s ongoing commitment to workplace safety, this month, we’re focusing on practical ways to reduce hazards through proper stacking, labeling, lifting, and daily housekeeping.

1. Housekeeping & Safe Storage: A well‑maintained workspace reduces hazards, improves efficiency, and supports regulatory compliance.

• Key Points
• Maintain clear access to exits, aisles, and electrical panels (OAR 437‑002‑0022; OFC 1031)
• Keep floors free of slip, trip, and fall hazards (OAR 437‑002‑0022)
• Store materials safely to prevent falling‑object hazards (OAR 437‑002‑0022; 437‑002‑0127)
• Ensure emergency equipment remains unobstructed (OFC 906; 907)
• Maintain orderly, professional work areas to support safe operations and inspections

Why it matters? Strong housekeeping prevents avoidable injuries and ensures work areas meet Oregon OSHA and OFC safety standards.

2. Shelving & Labeling: Shelves must be stable, properly loaded, and clearly labeled.

• Key Points
• Ensure shelving is stable and not overloaded (29 CFR 1910.176(b))
• Label shelves and maintain inventory records (29 CFR 1910.22(a)(3))
• Do not exceed manufacturer load ratings (general duty clause)
• Inspect shelving for sagging, damage, or instability (OAR 437‑002‑0022)

Why it matters? Overloaded or misused shelving increases the risk of collapse, falling objects, and preventable injuries.

3. Safe Storage of Items: Shelving must be used within its rated capacity and maintained in safe condition.

• Key Points
• Store heavy items at waist height or below (ergonomics best practice; OAR 437‑001‑0760)
• Place heavy items on lower shelves (29 CFR 1910.176(b))
• Secure irregular or round items to prevent rolling (OAR 437‑002‑0127)

Why it matters? Improper storage increases fall hazards and reduces efficiency.

4. Stacking & Stability: Materials must be stacked in a way that prevents shifting, sliding, or collapse.

• Key Points
• Stack straight and only to safe height limits (29 CFR 1910.176(b))
• Avoid leaning items against walls where they can slide or tip
• Band, wrap, or secure loose materials to prevent shifting (OAR 437‑002‑0127)
• Avoid leaning materials against walls where they can slide or tip 

Why it matters? Unstable stacks are a major source of struck‑by injuries and OFC housekeeping violations.

5. Proper lifting techniques: Safe lifting reduces strain and supports ergonomic best practices.

• Key Points
• Plan the lift, clear the path and hold load close
• Lift with your legs, not your back
• Avoid twisting—move your feet instead (29 CFR 1910.176(b))
• Use carts, dollies, or team lifts for heavy items (OAR 437‑001‑0760)

Why it matters? Poor lifting technique is a leading cause of office-related musculoskeletal injuries.

6. Labeling & Storing Hazardous Materials: Cleaning products and office chemicals must be labeled and stored safely. Chemical storage must follow Oregon OSHA Hazard Communication and OFC requirements.

• Key Points
• Ensure all containers have compliant, legible labels (OAR 437‑002‑0120)
• Label all chemicals properly and keep containers closed (29 CFR 1910.1200(f))
• Store incompatible chemicals separately (29 CFR 1910.106(d)(7))
• Keep Safety Data Sheets accessible (OAR 437‑002‑0120)
• Use approved cabinets for flammables and corrosives (OFC 5704; 5706)
• Never store chemicals in food/drink containers (OAR 437‑002‑0120)

Why it matters? Improper labeling or incompatible storage can lead to chemical exposure or reactions.

7. Inspecting Storage Areas: Regular inspections help identify unsafe conditions before they cause harm.

• Key Points
• Check shelving for cracks, buckling, or defects (29 CFR 1910.22(d))
• Ensure stacked loads remain stable and secure (29 CFR 1910.176(b))

Why it matters? Early detection of damage or clutter prevents injuries and supports compliance.

8. Daily Organization Habits: Consistent housekeeping and sanitation keep the office safe, efficient, and compliant.

• Key Points
• Store materials neatly and avoid unstable arrangements
• Maintain a clutter-free workspace and clean up promptly
• Dispose of trash and scrap promptly (OFC 304)
• Wipe up spills immediately (OAR 437‑002‑0022)
• Perform end‑of‑shift cleanup
• Use designated containers for recyclables and hazardous waste (OAR 340‑093‑0030; OAR 437‑002‑0120)

Why it matters? Daily habits prevent small issues from becoming major hazards, and proper disposal protects health, fire safety, and environmental compliance.