Top Risks in the Grocery Retail Sector

The retail grocery industry poses a substantial workplace injury risk for employees in their day-to-day duties. The potential for injury from a wide range of hazards exists in virtually every area of grocery store operations, regardless of the store’s size.

WSPS recently engaged workers, supervisors and employers on the grocery frontline to harness their knowledge and expertise in the identification of the top health and safety risks facing grocery store workers.

The industry is working collaboratively with WSPS to develop proactive strategies, resources and solutions to mitigate the risks and minimize injuries.

Top 10 Health & Safety Risks in the Grocery Retail Sector

1. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) from handling product
2. Slip, trip (General)
3. Lacerations from equipment (deli slicer, band saw, bread slicer, etc.)
4. Workplace stress leading to mental health harm
5. Workplace harassment
6. Struck by products (back room, receiving)
7. Fall from ladder (A-frame, extension, >3 steps)
8. Workplace violence (assault, robbery)
9. Slip, fall from continuous ice buildup from freezers
10. Lacerations from hand tools (knives, box cutters, shears, etc.)

Tools and Resources to Help Manage Risks in the Grocery Sector

Grocery workers, supervisors and employers are working collaboratively with Workplace Safety & Prevention Services to develop practical solutions to address the top health and safety risks in this sector.

Toolkit | Grocery Retail Sector Common Hazards and Solutions – Access practical tools and resources to help mitigate the health and safety risks to grocery store sector workers