Moreso than some other workplaces, warehouses and distribution centers utilize a lot of safety measures to protect employees and anyone else who happens to be in the facility. This is because there is a lot of potentially heavy or dangerous inventory stored in warehouses, such as furniture or lawnmowers. As a result, workplace safety is an incredibly important thing to know about when you’re going to be in a warehouse.
- Minimizing Risk
The most important thing you need to know about warehouse safety is that it is meant to minimize risk to everyone in the facility. Warehouses can be big and noisy and using industrial tools and equipment always carries the risk of injury, especially when someone isn’t trained properly. It’s important to follow standard industry procedures and comply with OSHA protocols to protect your employees, equipment, and inventory.
- Storing Inventory Properly
Warehouse pallet racking is one of the most common ways distribution centers store inventory. Pallet racking is a particularly good way to store even heavy inventory and use your space efficiently. You need to be sure to install pallet racking properly when you use it. Some types are built in such a way that forklifts are required to move inventory on and off the pallets. Others provide easier direct access to inventory but require the installation of supports and spacers so they need to be installed properly to prevent breakage or accidents. As long as you set it up properly, you can buy pallet racking to store your inventory safely and efficiently.
- Keeping Things Clean
Now more than ever, keeping workplaces clean is incredibly important. In the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, cleaning, sanitizing and disinfecting surfaces and equipment that employees use regularly isn’t just a courtesy, it’s a big part of workplace safety.
- Setting Up a Workplace Safety Plan
It’s not enough just to install equipment properly and keep things clean and well-maintained. You need to actively and continually participate in safety. Make sure all employees are trained in standard safety procedures and in using and maintaining industrial equipment if necessary. Employees should also feel comfortable speaking up if they feel something is unsafe or needs to be reviewed. You should make sure the warehouse has emergency plans and regular inspections to ensure proper procedures.
Whether you’re working in a warehouse or visiting one for any reason, be aware of any workplace safety procedures the facility’s management has put in place
