Photocopy Room Floors

Issue	Hazard	Possible solutions	Check it
Floor materials	Unsuitable or damaged floor covering.	Carpeted floors should be made of hard wearing close weave material which resists soiling by photocopier toners, chemicals. Rubber or linoleum flooring is easier to maintain and keep clean. It also allows easy movement of trolleys, barrows used for paper deliveries.
Obstruction	Cartons and boxes stacked on floor may cause tripping by employees entering or working in room, and may collapse if used to stand upon to reach shelves above.	Ensure there is enough 'off-the-floor' storage for maximum volumes of paper to be stored. Ensure cartons and boxes are emptied ASAP following receipt and removed for disposal. Do not permit floors to be used for permanent storage.
Housekeeping	Discarded packing materials left on floor after unpacking incoming goods (copy paper cartons, boxes, wrapping paper, plastic strapping). Waste from work done not cleaned up afterwards (paper trimmings, hole punch 'confetti', etc.).	Provide a bin for disposal of non-reusable waste adjacent to the area where goods are unpacked. Encourage good housekeeping habits through regular inspections by supervisors, OHS staff.

Further Information

Comcare Guidance Material
OHS 35 - Guide to preventing slips, trips and falls

OHS 34 - Guide to preventing slips, trips and falls (manager's guide)

OHS Book 10 - Identifying Hazards, Managing Risks

Further Information Other Guidance Material
ASCC Index of National Standards, Codes of Practice and related Guidance Notes

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Page last updated:August 13, 2008