Looking after your retail staff

You have a responsibility to protect the work health, safety and welfare of your staff.

Ensure all your workers are trained for manual handling, workplace stress and any other identified workplace risks or hazards.

Consult with your staff regarding these and any other work safety matters.

If offering ‘green’ reusable bags as an alternative to lightweight, checkout-style plastic bags, order bags which:

• match the dimensions of the current ‘green’ bag (height 33cm, base 30cm x 20cm)
• are made from durable material with strong handles, hooks and a firm, rectangular base
• preferably have clear washing instructions printed on them

Use common sense and do not overfill bags.

Instruct staff to politely decline any customers’ bags which are dirty or damaged.

If possible, review your checkout, counter and workplace design to accommodate the packing and use of reusable bags.
 
Remind your customers and staff

• Display notices about the bag ban
• Use the counter card to remind customers
• Support your staff during the transition period