Description of Job

Main Duties:

• greet customers and discuss the type, quality, quantity, use and care of merchandise for purchase or rental;
• estimate or quote prices, credit terms, trade-in allowances, warranties and delivery dates;
• prepare merchandise for purchase or rental;
• prepare sales contracts and do payment transactions;
• assist in the display of merchandise.

Health and Safety Hazards

Biological:

• potential hazard from breathing micro-organisims such as moulds and bacteria which may grow in air-conditioning and humidifying systems, evaporative condensers and cooling towers in buildings may cause symptoms such as allergies and respiratory infections.

Chemical:

• possible respiratory, eye and skin irritation from poor indoor air quality caused by poor ventilation design, sealed buildings and the build-up of contaminants from building materials and office equipment.

Ergonomic:

• high rate of cumulative trauma disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis and tenosynovitis can develop in cashiers;
• discomfort in the neck, shoulder, elbow and back from awkward positions in check-out stands;
• discomfort in legs, knees and feet, varicose veins and back pain from compressive forces from prolonged standing;
• risk of back injury from moving heavy or large merchandise.

Psychosocial:

• high stress from need to work efficiently and at a fast pace;
• shift work;
• competing for sales commission between co-workers;
• dealing with irate or difficult customers;
• being on the lookout for and coping with shoplifters.