For many, the holiday season is about being with family, enjoying festivities, and giving gifts. To make this possible, thousands of people work behind the scenes to help ensure a special season. Consequently, there is an influx of temporary workers, increased customer traffic, and extended hours across industries, especially retail, warehousing, and delivery services.
These developments are often welcome, but they pose unique challenges to worker safety. During this holiday rush, employers should prioritize robust safety measures to protect their workers so everyone can enjoy a safe holiday season. While each industry is unique, below are some general steps that employers can take to promote a safer holiday season. Moreover, much of this guidance can be applied to a year-round workplace safety plan.
Key Steps for Employers
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Create a Safe Work Environment: Employers must assess specific risks, such as increased workloads, crowd management during peak shopping events, and heightened risks in warehousing and delivery operations. OSHA recommends employers review its crowd management guidelines, train staff on safety protocols, and assign adequate personnel to manage large gatherings. Special attention should be given to hazards such as slips, trips, and overexertion, which are common in busy holiday workplaces and in some environments year-round.
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Train Seasonal Workers Thoroughly: Seasonal employees often face higher risks due to limited training and unfamiliarity with workplace procedures. Employers are responsible for providing comprehensive training tailored to these workers' needs. This includes explaining job hazards and safety protocols in languages the employees understand. Training should also focus on tasks such as operating machinery, lifting heavy items, and handling chemicals safely.
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Address COVID-19 Risks: Despite progress in managing the pandemic, the risk of COVID-19 remains relevant, especially in crowded settings. Employers should implement measures to minimize exposure, such as providing protective equipment, ensuring proper ventilation, and encouraging workers to stay home if they feel unwell.
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Give Special Consideration to Young, Temporary Workers: Young workers and temporary staff may face additional vulnerabilities due to inexperience or lack of training. Employers must ensure compliance with labor laws concerning age restrictions and permissible tasks for teen workers. Additionally, fostering a supportive environment where employees can voice safety concerns without fear of retaliation is crucial.
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Promote Mental and Physical Well-being: Holiday work can be uniquely stressful, and excessive hours may lead to burnout or injury. Employers should monitor workloads and encourage breaks to mitigate fatigue. Open communication and resources for stress management can help maintain a supportive atmosphere. Additionally, special consideration should be given to late-night retail workers and how to mitigate workplace violence.
Workers’ Rights and Employer Responsibilities
Federal laws, including those enforced by OSHA, protect workers' rights to a safe workplace. Employees have the right to report unsafe conditions and receive training on workplace hazards without fear of retaliation. Employers must comply with OSHA standards, including providing necessary personal protective equipment and addressing hazards proactively.
Building a Culture of Safety
For a truly safe work environment during the holidays or at any time of year, employers should not only focus on meeting regulatory requirements but also foster a culture that prioritizes worker well-being. Regular safety audits, open communication channels, and proactive risk management are essential. Employers, employees, and their families benefit when safety is a shared responsibility.
By following these guidelines, employers can help create a safe, efficient, and compliant workplace during the busy holiday season and all year round. Protecting workers isn't just a legal obligation — it's an investment in morale, productivity, and the overall success of the business.
For more detailed safety recommendations, visit the OSHA Holiday Safety webpage. In addition, Employers Council offers resources for members on topics discussed in this article. Here are a few: