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Discover detailed guidance and essential measures to ensure a safe working environment and protect the health of employees in the packaging industry.

Table of Contents

PART I: CURRENT STATE OF SAFETY IN THE PACKAGING INDUSTRY

I. General Situation

The Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs informs sectors and localities of the occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 and outlines key solutions to proactively prevent incidents and accidents in the last 6 months of 2024. According to reports from 61 out of 63 centrally governed provinces and cities, in the first 6 months of 2024, there were a total of 3,201 occupational accidents nationwide (a decrease of 227 cases, equivalent to 7.09% compared to the same period in 2023), resulting in 3,065 victims (a decrease of 197 people, equivalent to 6.04% compared to the first 6 months of 2023), including both employees under labor contracts and those working without labor contracts. Specifically:

Number of fatal occupational accidents: 320 cases, a decrease of 25 cases (7.25%) compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 245 cases in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 28 cases or 10.3%; and 75 cases in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 3 cases or 4.2% compared to the first 6 months of 2023);
Number of deaths due to occupational accidents: 346 people, a decrease of 7 people or 1.98% compared to the same period in 2023 (including 268 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 13 people or 4.63%; and 78 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 6 people or 8.33%).
Number of people seriously injured: 810 people, an increase of 26 people or 3.32% compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 710 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 5 people or 0.7%; and 100 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 31 people or 44.92%).

Download the PDF file Occupational Accident Report – First 6 Months of 2024 issued by the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs.

The occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 in both sectors with and without labor relations saw a decrease in the number of deaths and fatal accidents compared to the same period in 2023.

II. Some Occupational Accidents in Packaging Manufacturing Plants

In the packaging manufacturing industry, unfortunate occupational accidents occur frequently, affecting not only the health and safety of workers but also causing significant losses for businesses. Below are some notable accidents that have occurred in packaging manufacturing plants:

Accidents with motorized machinery: In some cases, workers may be injured by collision or being pulled into motorized machinery during operation or maintenance. These accidents often cause serious injuries, including cuts, crushing, or even death.
Incidents with transportation systems: Packaging manufacturing plants often use automated transportation systems to move products and materials during production. However, if not operated or maintained correctly, these systems can cause accidents, including collisions, material falls, or getting caught between machine parts.
Risks from hazardous materials: Packaging production often involves the use of hazardous materials such as chemicals, toxic substances, or flammable materials. Failure to follow safety procedures when working with these materials can lead to serious accidents, including exposure to toxic substances, explosions, or fires.
Lack of guidance and training: In some cases, accidents occur due to workers’ lack of knowledge and skills on how to use equipment and materials safely. Providing necessary training and guidance can help minimize the risk of occupational accidents in packaging manufacturing plants.
Negligence in safety management: Another important factor is negligence in the plant’s safety management. The lack of an inspection and monitoring system, as well as the failure to implement preventive measures, can lead to unwanted accidents.

These occupational accidents in packaging manufacturing plants particularly emphasize the need to implement strict safety measures and provide adequate training for workers to ensure a safe and healthy working environment.

PART II: OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH WHEN WORKING IN THE PACKAGING INDUSTRY

I. Occupational safety and health for material processing personnel

1. Job characteristics of material processing

The material processing procedure in packaging production plays a crucial role in preparing the necessary components for the main production process. This job includes two main stages: material preparation and structural cutting.

In the material preparation stage, workers must ensure that materials such as paper, plastic, film, or other materials are prepared carefully and correctly. This requires attention to detail and adherence to safety procedures to avoid accidents and waste.

After the materials have been prepared, the cutting and structuring work begins. At this stage, the materials often have to be cut and shaped into sizes and forms that are suitable for the specific requirements of the packaging product. This process requires a high degree of precision and technical skill to ensure the final product achieves the desired quality and aesthetics.

In summary, the work of processing materials in packaging production requires meticulousness, precision, and adherence to safety procedures to ensure a smooth production process and a final product that meets customer requirements.

2. Types of occupational accidents in the material processing process

In the process of processing materials in packaging production, many types of occupational accidents can occur. In the material preparation stage, the movement and handling of materials can cause accidents such as slips, falls, or collisions. In particular, when working with sharp materials such as cutting knives or cutting machines, the risk of cuts and injuries is very high.

In the process of cutting and structuring materials, accidents related to the use of cutting machinery are also a concern. If safety procedures are not followed correctly or if the equipment is used incorrectly, there is a risk of serious accidents such as cuts, crushing, or even loss of fingers.

In addition, working in an environment with a lot of dust, chemicals, or smoke can also cause health problems such as skin irritation, respiratory problems, or problems related to the respiratory system.

3. Causes of occupational accidents when processing materials

There are many causes of occupational accidents in the process of processing materials in packaging production. One of the main causes is a lack of knowledge and awareness of occupational safety on the part of the workers. Failure to follow safety rules, not using protective equipment correctly, or not following the correct safety procedures can lead to unwanted accidents.

In addition, a lack of understanding of specific operations and equipment is another cause. Workers may not be fully trained on how to use cutting machines or other tools, leading to incorrect use and accidents.

An unsafe working environment is also a major cause. Working in conditions of poor lighting, slippery floors, or an environment with a lot of dust and chemicals can increase the risk of accidents.

In addition, production and time pressures can also increase the risk of accidents. When workers have to complete work in a short period of time without enough time to take safety measures, they may feel pressured and work carelessly, leading to accidents.

4. Preventive measures for occupational accidents when processing materials

Occupational safety training: Provide full training and education on occupational safety for all workers involved in the material processing process. This training should include how to use safety equipment, correct work procedures, and how to handle emergency situations.
Risk assessment and identification of preventive measures: Conduct a risk assessment to identify hazardous areas and determine specific preventive measures such as using personal protective equipment, improving the design of the work environment, and applying safety measures when working near machinery.
Inspection and maintenance of equipment: Perform regular inspection and maintenance of equipment and machinery to ensure they operate safely and effectively. Incidents or breakdowns should be repaired immediately upon detection to avoid unwanted accidents.
Use of protective equipment: Ensure that all workers are fully equipped with and use correctly protective equipment such as helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and safety shoes to protect themselves when working.
Continuous monitoring and evaluation: Conduct continuous monitoring and evaluation of the work process to detect and resolve safety issues as they arise. This may include organizing regular meetings and collecting feedback from workers on safety issues.

5. Occupational safety regulations for material processing

Use of protective equipment: All workers involved in the material processing process must ensure they use full protective equipment such as helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and safety shoes to protect themselves.
Occupational safety training: Provide full training and guidance on occupational safety regulations for all new and old workers involved in the material processing process. Ensure that everyone understands and follows the safety rules correctly.
Inspection and maintenance of equipment: Perform regular inspection and maintenance of equipment and machinery to ensure they operate safely and effectively. Any incidents or breakdowns should be repaired immediately upon detection.
Risk assessment and handling: Conduct regular risk assessments to identify hazardous areas and take appropriate preventive measures. Handle risks as soon as they are detected to ensure a safe working environment.
Continuous monitoring and evaluation: Organize regular meetings and conduct monitoring to ensure that everyone is following the occupational safety regulations correctly. Collect feedback from workers and make continuous improvements in the work process.

6. Handling emergency occupational accidents when processing materials

Evacuation plan: As soon as an accident is detected, immediately notify all other workers to leave the hazardous area and find a safe place. Ensure that everyone is evacuated and does not return to the hazardous area until permitted.
Provide immediate first aid: Immediately call for emergency or medical services to request assistance. While waiting for help, provide immediate first aid to the victim if necessary. Ensure that the first aider has been fully trained on immediate first aid measures.
Protect the accident scene: Prevent contact with hazardous materials or other potential causes that could lead to further accidents. Keep the accident scene protected and preserve relevant evidence for later investigation.
Report and record: Record details of the accident including the time, location, description of the event, and the victim’s condition. Report the accident to management and the relevant authorities for later investigation and handling.
Evaluate and improve: After each accident, conduct an evaluation to determine the specific cause and propose improvement measures to prevent recurrence in the future. This includes reviewing work processes, providing additional training, and improving safety measures.

II. Occupational safety and health for printing and decoration personnel

1. Job characteristics of printing and decoration

In the printing stage, patterns and images are applied to the surface of packaging materials, such as paper, plastic, or film, through printing methods such as offset printing, letterpress printing, digital printing, or screen printing. This printing process requires precision and technical knowledge to ensure that each product has uniform and clear print quality.

After printing, the decoration stage begins. In this process, operations such as laminating, UV coating, or embossing are performed to create special decorative effects. Laminating is used to protect the surface and enhance the durability of the packaging product, while UV coating can create a glossy or matte layer to create a special effect. Embossing is used to create raised or recessed areas on the surface, creating a difference in feel and aesthetics.

In summary, the process of printing and decorating in packaging production requires technique and creativity to create final products with high quality and aesthetic form, while also meeting the specific requirements of the customer.

2. Types of occupational accidents in the printing and decoration process

Accidents related to machinery: Accidents can occur when operating printing and decoration machinery. Collisions, jams, and cuts are potential hazards when working near machinery, especially during job changes or equipment operation.
Chemical hazards: The use of printing and decoration materials can pose a risk of exposure to hazardous chemicals. Improper contact or inadequate use of protective equipment can cause health problems such as skin irritation, respiratory problems, or problems related to the respiratory system.
Hazards related to temperature and pressure: During the use of equipment such as heat presses or cold presses in the decoration process, the risk of high temperature or pressure can cause safety problems if the correct procedures and preventive measures are not followed.
Personal safety accidents: The improper use of personal protective equipment such as gloves, safety glasses, or masks can lead to unwanted accidents due to direct contact with hazardous or dangerous materials.

3. Causes of occupational accidents when printing and decorating

A major cause is a lack of knowledge and awareness of occupational safety on the part of the workers. Failure to follow safety rules, not using protective equipment correctly, or not following the correct safety procedures can lead to unwanted accidents.

A lack of understanding of specific operations and equipment is also another cause. Workers may not be fully trained on how to use printing and decoration machinery, leading to incorrect use and accidents.

An unsafe working environment also plays an important role in causing accidents. A lack of lighting, slippery floors, or an environment with a lot of dust and chemicals can increase the risk of accidents.

4. Preventive measures for occupational accidents when printing and decorating

Ensure occupational safety training: Provide full and regular occupational safety training for all workers involved in the printing and decoration process. In particular, training on the proper use of personal protective equipment and safety procedures is extremely important.
Use of personal protective equipment: Ensure that all workers are fully equipped with and use correctly personal protective equipment such as helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and protective clothing to protect themselves when working.
Work environment monitoring: Conduct periodic work environment monitoring such as lighting, noise, temperature, and chemicals. Ensure that all parameters are within safe limits and take improvement measures if necessary.
Maintenance of machinery and equipment: Perform regular maintenance for machinery and equipment used in the printing and decoration process. Ensure that they operate safely and effectively, and repair immediately if any incidents are detected.
Safe chemical handling: Use and store chemicals in a safe and proper manner. Ensure that all chemicals are clearly labeled and stored in safe areas to avoid the risk of contamination or unwanted contact.

5. Occupational safety regulations for printing and decoration

Adherence to safe work procedures: All workers must adhere to the established safe work procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment, procedures for using machinery and equipment, as well as specific accident prevention measures.
Regular inspection and maintenance: Perform regular inspection and maintenance for all equipment and machinery used in the printing and decoration process. Ensure that they operate safely and effectively.
Full and regular training: Provide full and regular occupational safety training for all workers involved in the printing and decoration process. The training includes recognizing and handling potential hazards, using protective equipment, and safety procedures.
Management of chemicals and materials: Store and use chemicals and materials in a safe and proper manner. Ensure that all workers are trained on how to use and handle chemicals safely.
Proper waste disposal: Perform the disposal and elimination of waste from the printing and decoration process in a safe and legal manner. Ensure that all workers are instructed on how to dispose of waste safely.

6. Handling emergency occupational accidents when printing and decorating

Protect the life and health of the victim: Immediately activate emergency measures to ensure the safety of the victim. Call the local emergency services and provide immediate first aid if necessary.
Protect the life and health of others: Ensure the safety of others in the area by instructing them to move out of danger and providing assistance if necessary.
Report the accident: Report the accident immediately to the relevant authorities and the company’s occupational safety management. This helps to ensure that preventive measures can be taken and the accident does not recur.
Investigate the accident: Investigate the cause of the accident to identify the specific causes and propose future preventive measures.
Mental support and recovery: Provide mental support and health care for all employees affected by the accident. This helps them to recover quickly and to be able to return to work safely.

III. Occupational safety and health for design and structure personnel

1. Job characteristics of design and structure

Design: The design process begins with a clear understanding of the customer’s requirements and the needs of the market. The designers will learn about the product to be packaged, its intended use, and market factors such as design trends and colors. Then, they will create creative and functional packaging samples, ensuring aesthetics and product protection.
Assembly: After the packaging sample is selected and approved, the assembly process begins. The components of the packaging product, such as the pieces, the print, and other accessories, will be assembled together according to the pre-determined design. This process may include cutting, gluing, pressing, and folding to create the finished packaging product.

2. Types of occupational accidents in the design and structure process

Accidents due to the use of equipment and tools: In the design process, designers often use tools and equipment such as computers, printers, or cutting and pressing tools. Improper use can lead to accidents such as cuts, crushing, or collisions.
Fire hazard: The use of flammable materials in the design and structure process can increase the risk of fire. If safety and fire prevention regulations are not followed, serious accidents can occur.
Accidents due to falling heavy objects: In the process of assembling packaging components, handling heavy objects such as cardboard boxes and paper rolls can lead to the risk of falling and causing injury to workers.
Chemical hazards: The use of chemicals in the printing, gluing, or surface treatment process can cause accidents due to chemical contact, such as skin irritation, or the risk of chemical explosion if not used correctly.

3. Causes of occupational accidents when designing and structuring

Lack of knowledge and training: The work of designing and structuring packaging products requires technical knowledge and experience. A lack of knowledge and training on work processes and occupational safety can lead to the improper use of equipment or the failure to recognize potential hazards.
Non-compliance with safety procedures: Failure to comply with occupational safety procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment and safe work procedures, can create a dangerous work environment and easily lead to accidents.
Unsafe design: A packaging product design that does not ensure safety for the production and use process can increase the risk of accidents, such as the use of inappropriate materials or an unstable design.
Unsafe chemical management: The use and storage of chemicals in the design and structure process can also lead to accidents if safety and environmental protection regulations are not followed.
Work pressure: Time and production pressures can cause workers to feel the need to work quickly without ensuring safety. This can lead to carelessness and accidents.

4. Preventive measures for occupational accidents when designing and structuring

Training and guidance: Provide full training on safe work procedures and the use of personal protective equipment. Ensure that all employees are instructed on how to use equipment and tools correctly.
Compliance with safety procedures: Ensure that all work and occupational safety procedures are followed correctly. This includes the use of protective equipment, safe work procedures, and safe chemical storage.
Inspection and maintenance of equipment: Perform regular inspection and maintenance for all equipment and tools used in the design and structure process. This helps to ensure that the equipment is always working correctly and safely.
Use of safe materials: Choose safe materials and chemicals that are not harmful to health and the environment. Ensure that all materials used comply with safety and environmental protection regulations.
Monitoring and feedback: Conduct regular monitoring to ensure that all preventive measures are being implemented correctly. Respond immediately to any incidents or safety violations to ensure they do not recur.

5. Occupational safety regulations for design and structure

Adherence to safe work procedures: All employees involved in the design and structure process need to be trained and adhere to safe work procedures. This includes the use of personal protective equipment and adherence to occupational safety regulations.
Regular inspection and maintenance of equipment: All equipment and tools used in the design and structure process need to be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure they are always working correctly and safely.
Chemical management: Use and store chemicals according to safety regulations and guidelines. Ensure that chemical materials are used safely and are not harmful to health and the environment.
Reporting of incidents and violations: Any incidents or violations of occupational safety regulations need to be reported immediately. Corrective measures need to be taken to prevent the recurrence of incidents and violations in the future.
Training and supervision: Provide continuous occupational safety training and regular supervision to ensure that all employees understand and comply with safety regulations and measures.
Take tests at occupational safety centers to obtain a labor safety certificate. From there, workers will have a clear understanding of safety knowledge as well as a valid certification for their work.

6. Handling emergency occupational accidents when designing and structuring

Protect employees: As soon as an accident occurs, ensure the safety of all employees by instructing them to move out of the hazardous area and to the nearest safe place.
Call for emergency services: Immediately contact emergency services or the local emergency number to request immediate assistance.
Provide first aid: If possible, provide immediate first aid to the victim by applying first aid measures such as cleaning the wound or positioning the wound.
Keep the patient safe until the ambulance arrives: If the situation allows, continue to keep the patient stable and provide comfort to them until the ambulance arrives.
Report the incident: After handling the emergency situation, immediately report to management and the company’s occupational safety department to investigate the incident and take future preventive measures.

IV. Occupational safety and health for packaging and crating personnel

1. Job characteristics of packaging and crating

Packaging: In the packaging stage, the packaging product is packaged into suitable units or rolls for transportation and storage. This process requires precision and care to ensure that the product is not damaged and retains its original quality after transportation.
Crating: After being packaged, the packaging units are then packed into boxes or pallets for transportation to retail outlets or distributors. The crating process requires care in stacking and arranging the products to ensure safety and efficiency during transportation.

2. Types of occupational accidents in the packaging and crating process

Injuries from falling heavy objects: During the loading and unloading or moving of packaging units or boxes, there is a risk of heavy objects falling and causing injury to employees, especially if personal protective equipment is not used or safe work procedures are not followed.
Accidents from cuts and collisions: The activities of cutting and stacking products can cause accidents from knives and cutting tools. If protective equipment is not used properly or safety procedures are not followed, there is a risk of cuts and collisions.
Slips and falls: A wet or slippery work environment can cause slip and fall accidents during the moving or stacking of products.
Problems related to lifting and transporting: When lifting and transporting boxes or pallets, employees may experience accidents due to the weight and carelessness, causing problems related to the spine and muscles.

3. Causes of occupational accidents when packaging and crating

Lack of personal protective equipment (PPE): The failure to use the correct types of personal protective equipment such as helmets, gloves, and safety glasses can create conditions for accidents to occur, especially in the case of falling heavy objects or cuts and collisions.
Lack of training and guidance: Employees who are not fully trained on safe work procedures and techniques may lead to dangerous situations in the packaging and crating process.
Unsafe work environment: Unsafe working conditions such as slippery floors, insufficient lighting, or a narrow workspace can also cause occupational accidents when employees have to work in difficult conditions.
Lack of attention and concentration: A lack of concentration or not paying enough attention to the work process is also a cause of accidents, especially when handling heavy and sharp materials.
Errors in the work process: Errors in the work process such as using tools incorrectly, not following safety procedures, or not ensuring occupational hygiene can also lead to occupational accidents.

4. Preventive measures for occupational accidents when packaging and crating

Training and guidance: Provide full training on safe work procedures and the proper use of personal protective equipment. Employees should be instructed on how to use equipment and follow safety procedures.
Use of personal protective equipment: Ensure that everyone involved in the packaging and crating process wears the correct personal protective equipment such as helmets, safety glasses, and gloves to protect themselves from potential hazards.
Inspection and maintenance of equipment: Ensure that the equipment and machinery are regularly inspected and maintained to ensure safe and effective operation.
Create a safe work environment: Flatten and clean the work areas, remove excess materials, and ensure there is enough light and space to move safely.
Adherence to safety procedures: Everyone involved in the packaging and crating process needs to strictly adhere to safe work procedures and not disable accident prevention measures.
Complete occupational safety training to be issued a group 3 labor safety card by the occupational safety training center to properly complete work records.

5. Occupational safety regulations for packaging and crating

Use of personal protective equipment (PPE): All employees involved in the packaging and crating process must ensure they wear full personal protective equipment such as helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and safety shoes to protect themselves from potential hazards.
Training and guidance: Provide full training and guidance on safe work procedures, techniques for using equipment, and occupational accident prevention measures.
Inspection and maintenance of equipment: Perform regular inspection and maintenance of equipment and machinery to ensure safe and effective operation.
Safe arrangement and storage of products: Ensure that the packaging products are arranged and stored safely and stably on pallets or in boxes to avoid accidents during transportation and storage.
Adherence to safety procedures: Everyone involved in the packaging and crating process needs to strictly adhere to the identified safety procedures to ensure the safety and efficiency of the work.

6. Handling emergency occupational accidents when packaging and crating

Immediate reporting: Witnesses or those affected by the accident should report it immediately to the company’s management or occupational safety department.
First aid: Provide immediate first aid to any injured person and call for emergency services if necessary.
Classification and protection of the scene: Classify the accident scene and ensure the safety of others by creating a safe zone and restricting access.
Information gathering: Gather detailed information about the accident including witnesses, a description of the event, and any other information that may be helpful in the investigation and handling of the incident.
Reporting and investigation: Report the accident to the labor management agency and conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause and propose preventive measures.
Mental support: Provide mental support to employees and witnesses affected by the accident to help them overcome the situation and continue working afterwards.