Scout's Toolbox Talks

Stacking and Storage Safety

Toolbox Talk:

Height and Weight Limits Matter

June 22, 2025

Poor stacking can lead to collapses, injuries, and equipment damage.

Why It Matters:
Unsafe stacks are a leading cause of struck-by injuries and material loss. OSHA requires stacks to be stable, supported, and within safe height limits.

Key Points:

  • Stack heavier materials on the bottom, lighter on top.
  • Never exceed 4x the base width in stacking height (e.g., 4 ft tall if the base is 1 ft wide).
  • Use proper pallets or dunnage for uneven or round materials.
  • Avoid leaning stacks or storing materials at an angle.
  • Re-stack immediately if items shift or settle.

✅ A safe stack doesn’t lean, wobble, or tower too high.

Ask the Crew:

  • Are any of our stacks too tall or unstable?
  • Are we following proper stacking guidelines?