Amputation injuries frequently occur when workers operate unguarded or inadequately safeguarded machinery, but they can also occur if a worker is simply not paying enough attention or makes a careless mistake. Machine and equipment operators are at risk, but so are other employees in the area if they are not aware of their surroundings.

“Machine and equipment operators are at risk, but so are other employees in the area if they aren’t aware of their surroundings.”

Hazardous Equipment

Heavy equipment and power tools present amputation risks such as the following:

• Being trapped between moving equipment and a fixed point
• Any tool or equipment that generates a cutting, sawing or shearing action
• Clothing getting caught in a moving machine or piece of equipment

It’s important to be aware of the hazards present while working in a warehouse, especially if you’re operating or working near any of the following tools or equipment:

• Forklifts and hand trucks
• Conveyors, cranes or hoists
• Trash compactors
• Powered and non-powered hand tools
• Other dock hazards such as ramps, movable dock plates or unsecured trucks

Injury Prevention

To avoid amputations and other series injuries in the warehouse or while loading and unloading, follow these safety precautions:

• Never operate a piece of equipment unless you are trained to do so.
• Make sure any carried loads are balanced, stable and not too heavy for the machine to handle.
• Do not stack any materials so high that it impedes your vision.
• Move at a safe speed when using vehicles, and watch out for other workers and keep the load close to the ground while traveling.
• Only use equipment for its intended purpose.
• Never remove guards or other safety devices from machinery. These are meant to protect you and prevent serious injury.
• Follow all safety precautions for the task at hand.
• Make sure trucks, ramps and overhead doors are all secure before loading or unloading.
• When using a crane or hoist, stay within the maximum weight capacity and carefully check the area to avoid swinging hazards.

Contact INSURICA for more safety tips and solutions.

This is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel or an insurance professional for appropriate advice. © 2023 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.