Hazard Identifications, Risk Assessment and Risk Control for Receiving Operation of a Retail Distribution Centre

Abstract

This study evaluates occupational safety and health (OSH) risks within high-traffic receiving and unloading operations at a Retail Distribution Centre in Puchong, Selangor. Data collection was executed through direct field observations and corporate document reviews, while risk quantification utilized a standardized 5x5 risk matrix framework to calculate Risk Matrix Numbers (RMN). The assessment mapped seven operational hazards across physical, ergonomic, and environmental dimensions. Material handling equipment operations were isolated as the single High Risk activity (RMN 8) due to severe vehicle-pedestrian collision potentials. Conversely, slips, trips, falls, handling damaged timber pallets, unstable load stacking, and manual equipment constraints were classified as Medium Risk exposures (RMN 4 to 6), while truck exhaust emissions were rated as Low Risk (RMN 2). Based on the Hierarchy of Control, the study recommends targeted practical interventions, including painting high-visibility traffic lanes within two weeks, enforcing bi-hourly clean-as-you-go housekeeping checklists, executing daily pre-use machinery inspections, and establishing truck no-idling rules. Ultimately, this research provides a standardized risk profile that balances operational velocity with comprehensive worker protection.