In any industry, Health & Safety is something that must be taken very seriously. Every employer has a duty of care to look after their staff, visitors, and customers. There are strict laws that must be adhered to. This ensures that injuries and fatalities don’t happen. It is also important that employees play their part. Following company safety procedures is the responsibility of every member of staff, especially those working in a warehouse.
Below is some advice about how to work safely in a warehouse.
Induction
I should give all employees an induction. This is a process used by employers to help new staff integrate into the company and their new roles. It is also an opportunity to explain a bit more about the company’s background and future goals. The length of induction time varies from company to company. Part of the induction process is ensuring that staff is aware of the company’s Health & Safety Guidelines. This not only protects you but also your colleagues and co-workers. Working in a warehouse can come with some risks, so it’s important to keep track of innovative warehouse storage ideas so you can avoid these and manage them properly.
Training
Ongoing training is essential to ensure safety in a warehouse environment. Policies and procedures change, so any alterations must be communicated to staff. Always pay close attention to training sessions. It could make all the difference to your ongoing safety. If there are any areas where you feel you have not been given the correct or adequate training, advise your line manager.
Accesses & Walkways
It’s essential in a warehouse that there are adequately distanced and safe access routes for both staff and machinery. You must know your way around and ensure that these are always kept debris-free. Some warehouses will have tiered areas that involve navigating steps and different-level walkways to access materials and goods. Many companies use safety equipment from a supplier who specializes in varying-level platforms, stairs, gates, etc. This ensures staff safety at all times and free and easy access to stock.
Machinery
If you are using machinery, it’s important you have been given the correct training. Whether it’s a pallet truck or a forklift, you must know what you are doing. Accidents can easily happen so never mess around or deviate from the training you have been given. Never let anyone who isn’t properly trained use machinery, and never let anyone climb on a machine inappropriately. It’s also important not to operate machinery when feeling tired or if on any medication.
Lifting
It is important that if you are lifting anything, particularly from ground level, you do it correctly. Lifting can easily put pressure on your spinal cord or joints. The ideal way to lift is to bend your knees. Your legs are better equipped to absorb pressure putting less strain on your waist, hips, and back. Adhering to these safety suggestions, man lifts will help you and your staff to operate safely and reduce the potential for injury or death. If you are at all unsure of the best methods to use, speak to your line manager, who can guide you depending on what items you are moving.
Clothing
You must wear the right clothing when working in a warehouse. Your employer will usually advise you on what is required regarding safety. This can vary depending on the role you are carrying out. If necessary, they will provide you with the correct PPE (personal protective equipment.) This can range from reflective clothing to steel-toe-capped boots.
Fire
All warehouses should have a member of staff who has been allocated as a fire warden. Sometimes this will be more than one person, depending on how many employees there are. They are responsible for ensuring staff safety in the event of an evacuation. Make sure you are aware of who the designated person within your organization is. It is also important that you are aware of the nearest fire exits in the event of an alarm being raised. This will ensure you can safely exit the building at the quickest time possible. There will usually be an outside area you should go to in the event of a fire. Companies will carry out occasional test fire alarms. This ensures that staff knows what they should do and confirms alarms are working correctly.
Lighting and ventilation
Good lighting and ventilation are crucial in warehouse conditions. Adequate lighting ensures employees have a clear view of what they are working with. This is particularly important when machinery is being used. Ventilation is necessary to dilute and remove humid air. Providing sufficient air movement within a building makes the air feel fresher.
