MANAGING RISKS IN LOADING DOCK AND WAREHOUSE ENVIRONMENTS
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100-CAU-01-IGDO © 2025, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS)
1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | WSPS.CA
Hazard 3: Adding or Removing Strapping
Details
Shippers often bundle or crate items with strapping. The strapping may break and cause injury,
especially to the eye
Loose strapping that has been cut off becomes a tripping hazard
Threat
Potential eye injury from broken strapping
Bruises
Broken bones
Safe Work Guidelines
When You Are Adding Strapping
Use safety goggles and leather gloves
With heavy strapping, use steel-reinforced glove
Do not use more force to tighten straps than the machine is designed for
To cut off excess strapping and sharp or pointed ends and remove any broken or damaged bands, use
metal snips (cutters)
When You Are Working with Strapped Items
Face in the direction of the pull
Stay out of the direct line when the strap is under tension
Do not lift a package by the strapping
Before You Cut The Strapping
Anchor the closest end with a holding device
Warn other workers, pick up your snips, turn your back to the strapping and stand out of the line of recoil
Do not remove strapping by breaking it with a hammer, bar, chisel, or other tool
After You Cut The Strapping
If the strapping is not made of metal, tie a knot in it
If the strapping is metal, fold and flatten it
Throw out waste strapping immediately so it does create a tripping hazard
WSPS.CA
