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


Figure 4: Lead racks (trees) used to elevate cables and hoses over walkway work-surface.


Figure 5: Welding leads and hoses positioned so that stairs are not blocked.


Figure 6: Flammable materials stored in fire-resistant containers.

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. [29 CFR 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. [29 CFR 1915.91(a)]
• All working areas must be kept reasonably free of debris. [29 CFR 1915.91(b)]
• Construction material (such as drums, pipes) must be stacked as not to present a hazard to workers. [29 CFR 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. [29 CFR 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.  [29 CFR 1915.91(e)]