Ergonomics: Grocery Store Stocking
Ergonomics for the Prevention of Musculoskeletal Disorders: Guidelines for Retail Grocery Stores
Ergonomic principles apply to employees who perform stocking tasks at grocery stores.
Keep cases close to the body when lifting and carrying in order to reduce stress to the back.
Use thermal gloves when stocking frozen foods. Cold temperatures can reduce circulation, causing stress on the hands. If pricing, use a glove with textured fingertips to wipe frost from frozen foods.
Use knee pads when stocking low shelves for long periods of time. This reduces the stress on the knees and legs when kneeling.
Use a kneeler or stool when working at low shelves for long periods of time. This reduces stress on the knees and legs when squatting and kneeling.
Rotate stocking tasks to avoid prolonged kneeling, squatting, and overhead reaching.
Use a cart to move items from the pallet to the shelving or case where they are stocked.
Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA)
200 Constitution Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20210
www.osha.gov