There are many hazards found within the Food & Beverage Wholesale Distribution industry, so it can be
daunting to easily find solutions to these challenges. However, without a solid understanding of the dos,
don'ts, and best practices, these hazards also present numerous risks to workplaces.
Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) and the Food & Beverage Wholesale Distribution industry
are working together to develop solutions that address the top ten risks in this sector. This document
provides some clarity on current resources and workplace best practices that address these risks.
Top 10 Risks in the Food & Beverage Wholesale Distribution Industry
1. Musculoskeletal disorders – manual material
handling (including when consolidating trailers)
2. Employee behaviours – low risk perception
3. Slips, trips, and falls
4. Struck against racking – head impacts on racking
5. Pedestrian safety (indoor) – struck by material
handling equipment
6. Fatigue and stress
7. Temporary workers – 3rd party agency employees
8. Motor vehicle incidents during transportation
of goods
9. Moving pallets in and out of racking
10. Powered material handling equipment collisions
with fixed structure/objects
Within these top 10 risks, there are five common topics. Within each topic, we have provided links to
associated WSPS solutions, many of which are free! You can also visit the Food & Beverage Wholesale
Distribution Resource Hub or connect with a Consultant if you have additional questions.
Topics and Links to Resources
Manual Material Handling and MSD Hazards
Manual material handling is the process
of moving materials and goods from one
location to another by carrying, holding,
lifting, pulling, pushing, and stooping. Factors
such as repetitive motion, incorrect lifting
techniques, fatigue, rushing, and awkward
postures contribute to the risk of developing
musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Having
effective controls in place to address manual
material handling can eliminate or reduce the
hazards and can help businesses perform at
optimal levels.
Consulting
MSD Hazard Identification Summary
Ergonomics Assessments
Material Handling Process Review and Action Plan
MSD Prevention Program Development
Ergonomic Program Audit
Training
Safe Lifting and Manual Material Handling (1/2 day)
Safe Lifting and Manual Material Handling – Supervisor (1 hr)
Manual Material Handling (e-Course)
MSD Prevention Awareness (e-Course)
Food & Beverage Wholesale Distribution:
Risks, Hazards, and Solutions
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