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Packout - General

Task 2: Box Packer

Packout - General - Task #2: Box PackerPacking boxes involves taking packed trays, bags, or whole birds, from the conveyor and depositing them in a box. Employees generally work at a boxing station located next to a conveyor which supplies product to be boxed.

Hazards of this task may include:


Repetitive reaching and lifting
Hazardous Situation:
Employees repeatedly reach to conveyor to obtain product for processing and may reach to place product in the box. Repetitive reaching stresses the shoulder and upper back.
Possible Solutions:
  • Use diverter bars to push the product closer to the employee.
  • Reduce width of conveyor so the product is presented closer to the employee.
  • Position packing fixtures and product so all activities of the task can be performed with the elbows in close to the torso.
  • Tilt work surface so product slides to the employee.
  • Develop both left- and right-hand stations so employees can rotate through different stations and experience periods of working rest.
  • Provide adjustable work tables or stands so task can be performed without torso bending or reaching.
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Standing for a long time
Hazardous Situation:
Standing for a long time reduces blood flow to the legs, forces isolated muscles to work for an extended time, and increases risk of fatigue and varicose veins.
Possible Solutions:
  • Install sit/stand stools, which allow employees to lean and have their weight supported while still remaining in an upright posture.
  • Rotate employees to tasks that do not require prolonged standing.
  • Provide shoe insoles that cushion the feet and spread foot pressure over a larger surface.
  • Provide a foot rest in front of employees so they can shift their posture.
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