York Containers - Safe movement on platform

[Headbanger]

All too often there are, as we know, issues of safe movement of empty York containers about the platform.
In large offices this is less of a problem as the platform area is clearly marked and segregated.

The SSOW says it is safe for one person to move TWO empty assembled York containers.

In many smaller delivery offices doing this safely is sometimes dependent on the volume of platform traffic. If as in many the area involved is unsegregated it is therefore likely there could be conflict between York and staff movements resulting in an accident.

Can anyone confirm the information regarding SSOW is correct as this originates from a manager?

I thought only nested or one empty York could be handled by one person.

What is the position if the platform is small with little room for both York traffic and staff on other tasks?

Manager says I am talking rubbish!

[axeman]

Ask him for it in writing as as far as i know it's a big but of course these jumped up far*s would say it wouldn't they

[brothermagrew]

Consider emailing Dave Joyce CWU National Health, Safety and Environment Officer with your query.

djoyce@cwu.org

[Ahebban]

There is a specific booklet ... SSOW - York and Mini York containers ... which your local/area safety rep should be able to get for you. The copy I have is dated April 2004 which was supplied to me by my area safety rep a few weeks back in Word format.

As with all H&S issues commonsense has a large role to play .. always err on the side of caution and let your Manager provide you with his printed version that is endorsed by RM and CWU. In the absence of an office safety rep a visit from the area safety rep usually gets the manager to back off.

[hagrid]

Headbanger.

Three nested strapped together Yorks can be moved by one person.

Nowhere in the SSOW does it state that two full/empty made up Yorks can be moved by one person.

This is an extract from the document.

When manoeuvring containers
Before manoeuvring always fasten the load retention straps on the container.
There must be enough room to manoeuvre.
In normal use push from brake end using the yellow handles.
When backing the York against a wall, e.g. on a loading bay or in a vehicle,
It is permissible to push from the front in order to position the container.
Only push one container at a time (but see below for empty Yorks.
] Take care when pushing as the view may be restricted.
Keep feet clear when manoeuvring.
Manoeuvre using handles.
When turning sharp corners go to the side facing the direction you want to turn and steer the York by pulling the sidewall.
When manoeuvring heavy loads or operating on slopes assistance may be required.

There is a section on nested Yorks with pictures too large to place here.

PM me - anyone who wants a copy of the latest SSOW for Royal Mail and please include your email address so I can send it.

Haggers.