Working in a warehouse presents many a risk. Numerous gruesome injuries and fatality cases have been reported all around the globe involving warehouse-related work. Hence, why safety practices are being emphasized especially in warehouses.
The safety of your warehouse should always be at the top of the priority list of management. Here are common warehouse hazards and the effective ways to deal with them:
Physical strain
Warehouse workers are often carrying heavy loads of materials and bulky items on a regular basis. This can lead to varying levels of physical strain over time which can be difficult to identify because different bodies respond to the physical strain caused by long exposure to that kind of workload.
Way to deal with this hazard: Personal awareness and workload management. Teach your team how to handle lifting and carrying heavy items properly and do not overwork them. Train them to observe proper ergonomic posture when carrying or moving loads. Let them have an ample amount of rest after during intervals of carrying, lifting, and moving around bulky items.
Slips
A common cause of household injuries, slips, trips, and falls are also a common occurrence in the warehouse. Often caused by litters, misplaced boxes, and poorly lit areas.
Way to deal with this hazard: Be sure that the workspace is organized according to your layout plan. Clean up any spills or dropped objects immediately. You may also invest in slip-resistant footwear that your workers can wear.
Machinery and equipment
Accidents involving warehouse machinery are pretty dangerous. This usually involves loading and unloading items. Workers may end up getting pinned between forklifts or getting hit by vehicles.
Ways to deal with this hazard: Place proper warning labels around the vicinity. Make sure that they are clear and readable. Ensure that all personnel using the equipment are thoroughly taught.
Charging stations
In relation to equipment, charging stations are also accident-prone areas. If the proper guidelines are not followed while recharging or refueling equipment, explosions might occur.
Ways to deal with this hazard: Keep the charging stations away from flames or any flammable materials. Place fire extinguishers nearby and check them if they still work and have the adequate ventilation system installed. LSCR warehouse spaces offer a suitable area on its workspace for your charging equipment.
Exposure to hazardous substances
Some warehouses contain harmful chemicals that are may cause damage physically and internally on contact or exposure over a certain period of time.
Ways to deal with this hazard: Train your personnel to stick with the safety procedures on proper handling, storage, and disposal chemicals.
In addition, to verify the safety of your regular operations you can create a checklist and do scheduled inspections.
It all boils down to giving your warehouse employees the proper training on safety. Always put an emphasis on the welfare of your workers for they are an integral part of your operations and is essentially the foundation of your success.