Warehouse safety is one of the most pressing concerns for warehouse managers and workers. This concern originates from the high number of injuries and deaths among warehouse employees. Understanding typical workplace injuries, what causes them and how to prevent them is the first step toward improving warehouse safety.
Today, in this blog, we’ll learn eight ways to maintain employee safety in warehouses.
- Line Marking
People rushing from point A to point B while completing various activities is prevalent in warehouses due to the large volume of traffic. It is always preferable to take preventative steps. A warehouse can benefit from OH&S line marking in a variety of ways:
- It aids in the establishment of safe walkways for employees
- It establishes separate routes for transporting and operating heavy machines
- It shows where hazardous waste, machinery and other equipment should be stored
- It aids in the smooth running of your fast-paced business
- It aids in improving the flow of traffic throughout your building
- It improves your company's safety and cost-efficiency
- Ensure Safety Equipment is Worn at All Times
Forklifts or hydraulic dollies must be utilized to raise objects that are too heavy in the warehouse. When necessary, protective glasses and hard hats should be worn. Employees should be aware of emergency exits at all times, and the roof sprinklers should not be obstructed at any time. Safety equipment is installed to reduce workplace injuries, so while it may take some time to get started, it pays off in the long term. Also read here Safety Tips for Warehouse Managers for Successful Operation of Forklifts.
- Fully Train All Staff Members on Safety Procedures
Ensure that all employees are well-informed and up to date on workplace safety procedures. This encourages employees to follow procedures because they are fully aware of the repercussions of working in a dangerous environment. Accidents frequently occur when shortcuts are taken in order to save time. Procedures may be followed more rigorously if personnel and management are fully informed of the potential consequences of this fact.
- Label Hazardous Areas
The most cost-effective and functional strategy to keep your warehouse organized and safe from hazardous conditions is to utilize signs and stickers. Workers can avoid serious injuries by clearly labelling racks, equipment and contents. It's also critical to clearly indicate emergency exits and the safest paths to them.
- Promote Awareness and Communication
Improving warehouse safety demands simple but regular actions by everyone, not just safety personnel, in every aspect of warehouse operation. Apart from having the necessary certifications and training, holding monthly warehouse safety meetings or toolbox presentations can help engage frontline workers, create collaboration and establish a safety culture from the ground up.
- Eliminate Unnecessary Safety Hazards
It's critical to keep floors free of slipping and trip risks. The value of good housekeeping must also be understood by the workforce. Any stray cords, liquids, accumulated garbage, fissures and pits on the floor should be checked on a regular basis. Employees may suffer serious injuries, and costly machinery and cargo may be damaged.
- Prevent Accidents Involving Heavy Machinery
Ascertain that your workforce is adequately trained on how to operate the machinery and equipment. Then, to help recall them, conduct frequent training. Place warning labels in strategic, visible positions so that everyone in the area can see them and understand the risks.
If your team isn't using warehouse machinery appropriately, it has the potential to be incredibly harmful. Many devices contain moving elements, and if not handled properly, they might result in catastrophic injury.
- Stations for Charging
All powered equipment in warehouse facilities is refueled or recharged at charging stations. Gasoline, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or a battery can all be used to power the units. Fires and explosions might occur if warehouse safety requirements are not followed.
Therefore, chargers should be kept away from open flames. Smoking should be made illegal. In the event of a fire, fire extinguishers should be readily available and in good functioning order.
To disperse dangerous gases, a sufficient ventilation system must be established. PPE should be worn at all times. If staff are exposed to acids or chemicals, eye-washing and shower facilities should be available.
The above precautions can help your workforce be safe, and you can get more work done efficiently. Accidents happen, but if you stay cautious, then you can avoid mishaps. So, consider the above precautionary measures in your warehouse and help your workers stay progressive with safety.
