Section 65: Storage

65. Storage (1) All goods, articles and substances shall be stored or stacked— (a) in such manner as will ensure their stability and prevent any fall or collapse; (b) in such manner as not to interfere with the adequate distribution of natural or artificial light, the proper operation of machines or other equipment, the unobstructed use of passageways or traffic lanes, and the efficient functioning of sprinkler systems and the use of other fire extinguishing equipment; (c) on firm foundations not liable to settle and in such manner as not to overload any floor; (d) in such a position and in such a manner as not to cause danger to the employees or to other persons who may be affected thereby. (2) No goods, articles or substances shall be stored or stacked against a wall or partition unless the wall or partition is of sufficient strength to withstand any pressure caused thereby. (3) All practicable steps shall be taken by covering, fencing or other means to prevent an employee from falling into any fixed vessel, sump or pit, the edge of which is less than one metre above the adjoining ground or platform and which contains a substance likely to be prejudicial to his safety or injurious to his health. (4) The Permanent Secretary may by order in writing exempt from the requirements of subsection (3) any class or description of vessel, sump or pit where he is satisfied that the requirements are unnecessary or inappropriate.