Operating a warehouse brings many security risks. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of these risks and know how to manage them. Here are our top 7 tips for keeping safe in a warehouse environment.
(1) Material handling
Material handling is one of the most common causes of injury in warehouses. Improper lifting of materials may lead to short-term problems or long-term illness of employees. To avoid this, you should
● train employees in proper lifting techniques, including putting up posters around the warehouse to remind workers of best practices
● whenever possible, always use forklifts or other warehouse lifting equipment to avoid fatigue
● work with colleagues to lift heavy, large or clumsy objects.
(2) Forklifts and other vehicles
Forklifts and other vehicles used in the warehouse environment can cause warehouse safety problems if abused or used without training. Unsafe use of forklifts and other vehicles can cause injury to operators and people working in the warehouse. Ensure the safe use of forklifts by employees in the following ways;
● ensure that all forklift operators are trained and certified.
● check forklifts and other vehicles for any damage or failure before use every day.
● place speed limit signs around the operation area to prevent the operator from speeding.
● do not handle goods at dangerous heights. Be careful when handling goods on steep slopes to avoid overturning of forklifts.
(3) Personal protective equipment (PPE)
Personal protective equipment is essential for warehouse safety. Even if something goes wrong, personal protective equipment will provide a certain degree of protection. Many accidents can be avoided when wearing the correct personal protective equipment. To ensure the safety of employees;
● provide relevant personal protective equipment for employees. This may include goggles, protective clothing, hard hat, gloves and steel toe boots.
● put up posters around the warehouse to remind employees to wear personal protective equipment at all times in the warehouse.
(4) Fire hazard
Warehouses usually pose many fire risks. The materials used or stored in the warehouse are often highly flammable, which will cause danger to employees in case of fire. Make sure you minimize the potential threat of fire by following these warehouse safety tips:
● ensure that all fire exits have clear signs and exit routes so that employees can leave quickly and safely in case of fire.
● ensure that the first aid kit is in sufficient stock, within the validity period, and in all parts of the warehouse.
● make sure you have emergency lighting to guide employees in case of fire.
● regularly test the fire alarm.
● develop an evacuation plan known to all employees.
(5) Hazardous chemicals and materials
Not all warehouses will use or come into contact with hazardous chemicals and materials. However, if you do, employees must understand the risks and know how to deal with any problems. Ensure that any personnel who may handle hazardous chemicals have received the following training:
● how to identify the hazards of chemicals.
● how to handle chemicals.
● how to store chemicals safely.
● how to dispose of chemicals.
(6) Slips and falls
Slips and falls are one of the most common causes of injuries in the workplace. This is especially true in warehouse environments where the surface is slippery or may be blocked by debris. Minimize the chances of slipping and falling by:.
● ensure that all employees are aware of the cleaning protocol - know how to clean spills and where to put packaging and debris
● use anti slip paint on the floor.
● ensure that floors are leveled where possible.
(7) Pallets and shelves
Pallets and shelves do not appear to pose any immediate safety issues, but they can pose a threat to employees if they are not maintained or used correctly. Common problems include trays becoming fragile or broken, or items not safely placed on shelves. In order to minimize the risk associated with any pallet.
● check the pallets regularly to check their sound structure and deal with any damaged or damaged pallets.
● check your shelf unit regularly to verify that items are stored carefully.
