Carelessly stacking boxes, resulting in them falling on a coworker, is classified as what type of hazard?

The situation described involves a failure to properly stack boxes, leading to a safety incident where the boxes fall on a coworker. This can be classified as a human factor—omission hazard. In this context, "omission" refers to a lack of action or failure to adhere to safe work practices. When individuals neglect to follow established guidelines for stacking or organizing materials safely, they are omitting necessary steps that could prevent hazards.

Understanding this classification is essential in Occupational Health and Safety, as it highlights the importance of proactive engagement in safety practices. Omission can stem from a lack of knowledge, oversight, or underestimating the risks involved, which ultimately compromises the safety of everyone in the workplace. Recognizing this type of hazard emphasizes the need for training and awareness to ensure that all safety measures are observed.