With the recent rise in e-commerce, the demand for warehouses has risen proportionately. As these units for inventory get busier, the pressure to move material quickly increases. And whenever work speeds up, the chance of accidents and injuries goes up also.
Although companies are turning to robots for more of their warehouse tasks, there will still be plenty of human workers, and keeping them safe will be a priority. Protecting employees will always be a critical part of warehouse management, so here are some ideas for making warehouses as safe as possible:
Good housekeeping
Because slips and falls are common warehouse injuries, don’t allow paths and floors to become cluttered. Moisture and sawdust can contribute to slipping, so make sure spill kits are available in areas where chemicals or oil could leak, mop up any water, and sweep up loose materials, such as sawdust, to reduce the chances for a slip or fall that could result in an injury.
Comprehensive safety training
The most valuable part of safety training is that it gets everyone together and gives them a chance to discuss safety issues and ask questions. It also allows your workers to make personal connections and get to know and trust each other.
The training itself serves to enhance awareness to help avoid common injuries like slips and falls. It can also teach warehouse workers how to stack items, since doing it incorrectly could result in a heavy object falling from a considerable height, causing a severe or fatal injury.
Guard railings can help prevent common slips and falls in the warehouse, but safety training can make your employees aware of potential hazards even with railings installed.
Define pedestrian routes with barriers
Forklift crashes and falling inventory continue to account for many of the warehouse injuries. An impact-absorbing pedestrian barrier can help define traffic routes and protect employees by deflecting and cushioning the impact of falling inventory and forklift mishaps. Pedestrian barriers can minimize repair costs and reduce downtime while they make the warehouse environment safer.
Add visual communication
Confusion and miscommunication are opponents of safety. Clear signs and labels must warn of dangers and provide safety instructions. Signs should communicate procedures that are particular to each area of the warehouse. Any safety markings that have faded, specifically on floors, need to be repainted. Ensure there are signs that show workers the way to emergency and safety equipment.
When it comes to fires, the best advice is to prepare for the worst. Mark all fire exits plainly, and familiarize workers with the proper procedures in case of a fire. Follow all fire extinguisher laws and conduct fire drills regularly.
Warehouse safety is crucial
As a caring employer, you already understand your employees deserve to work in a safe and protected environment. But workplace safety is essential to the health of your organization as well. Safety is always a win-win situation for those involved.
For help finding great employees for your warehouse, contact the staffing professionals at Select Staff today.
