The holiday season is a time for celebration, but this busy time also brings increased risks of workplace injuries. OSHA has curated a variety of resources to help employers across industries — including retail, warehousing, or delivery services — keep their teams safe during this busy season. In response, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is directing workers and employers to their Holiday Workplace Safety resource page.
Key Risks During the Holiday Season
The holiday season brings unique safety challenges across industries. As the demand for goods and services skyrockets, so do the safety hazards.
Seasonal staffing, long hours, crowded workspaces, and the rush to meet tight deadlines all contribute to an environment where injuries are more likely to occur. Here’s a closer look at some of the most significant hazards:
- Seasonal Staffing and Safety Gaps: Many businesses rely on temporary or part-time workers to meet the surge in demand during the holidays. Unfortunately, these workers are often unfamiliar with the workplace, safety protocols, and potential hazards, which makes them more susceptible to injuries.
- The Pressure of the Holiday Rush: The fast-paced work environment, driven by the need to fulfill orders quickly, can lead to rushed work and unsafe shortcuts. The increased pressure can cloud judgment and increase the likelihood of accidents.
- Longer Hours and Fatigue: Extended shifts and overtime put additional strain on workers, leading to fatigue. Tired workers are more prone to making mistakes, which can result in accidents.
- Crowded Workspaces: Retail employees often manage large crowds, while warehouse workers navigate densely packed facilities and fast-paced order fulfillment tasks.
Leveraging OSHA Resources for Holiday Safety
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) offers a wealth of resources to help businesses safeguard their teams. Their holiday and industry-specific guidance includes:
- Crowd Management Tips for retail workers.
- Safe Driving Practices for delivery personnel.
- Winter Weather Preparedness for outdoor workers.
- Stress Management Resources to support employee well-being.
These tools, available in both English and Spanish, are designed to address the unique challenges of the holiday season.
The Reality of Holiday Work Hazards
In 2023 alone, the warehousing industry saw 170 severe injuries, including 152 hospitalizations and 32 amputations. Every day, about 15 workers in the U.S. lose their lives on the job. Unfortunately, this also includes workers who won’t make it home to their families this holiday season.
By organizing these resources for these workers in one place, OSHA makes it simple for employers to access the information needed to address the increased risks this season
“As the nation enters the holiday shopping season, employers must ensure that all workers are trained to recognize and prevent job hazards and implement safe work practices,” says OSHA. “Our resources are designed to help safeguard workers at every stage, whether they’re working in retail, warehousing, or on delivery routes.”
Employers who take advantage of OSHA’s safety tips and resources can make a significant impact on worker safety this season. This proactive approach helps ensure that both their teams and customers enjoy a safer, more productive holiday.
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