Shopwork/retail can be dangerous and unhealthy. Many people don't realise how serious the hazards are. Nor do they realise that the problems are not an inevitable part of the job. Hazards can be reduced if working conditions are improved.

Employers have a legal duty to identify the significant risks and to introduce preventive and protective measures to control those risks. They also have duties to inform staff about the risks and to consult with staff or their representatives on the arrangements for controlling them.