Checking items out

Checking items out at the Loans desk involves the process of scanning patron details from an ID card, handling and scanning the items to be borrowed, desensitising and passing the items back to the patron.

Within this process staff may be required to carry out other duties such as placing holds, registering patrons, changing patron details, dealing with queries relating to borrowing privileges, etc.

Throughout the checkout process staff must make many small movements with their hands, arms, shoulders and feet.

The self-service checkout machine assists staff by absorbing a percentage of straight-forward transactions.

Over the next few pages we will look at the process and see where the hazards are.