Potential Hazards:
Cluttered work areas can lead to accidents and cause worker injuries,
due to slips, trips, and
falls, being struck by falling
objects, impeded access to exit routes and firefighting equipment, and
fires because of improper disposal of flammable/combustible materials (such as
rags, paper, cardboard).
Requirements and Example Solutions:
Good housekeeping conditions must be maintained at all
times.
- Adequate aisles and passageways must be maintained in all work
areas. [1915.91(a)] Passageways
may be restricted or blocked by:
- Lines (such as electrical, air, gas)
- Ventilation ducts
- Welding cables
- Equipment
- Debris
- Hose and electric conductors must be elevated over or placed under
the walkway or working surfaces or be covered by adequate crossover
planks. [1915.91(a)]
- All working areas must be kept reasonably free
of debris. [1915.91(b)]
- Construction material (such as drums, pipes) must be stacked as not to present a hazard to
workers. [1915.91(b)]
- Slippery conditions must be eliminated as they occur. [1915.91(c)]
- Means of egress must be maintained at all times to all exits and to all
fire-alarm boxes or fire-extinguishing equipment. [1915.91(d)]
- Oils, paints thinners, solvents, waste, rags, or other
flammable substances must be kept in fire-resistant covered containers
when not in use. [1915.91(e)]
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Figure 1: Improper practice: Tripping hazards due to welding hoses and
cables.
Figure 2: Improper practice: Stair exit route impeded by hoses and cables.
Figure 3: Planks used to form a walkway over cables.
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