Working in the warehouse can be dangerous and many accidents occur every year in such environments. Incidents are most likely to happen when staff members are moving items, whether it is to load up a delivery van, or restock the shelves. Staff can be distracted and have limited visibility when handling stock both manually and with a fork lift truck.
It is therefore important to have sound safety procedures in place when handling stock.
Storage systems
The first issue to address is whether items are stored properly and in suitable racking and shelving systems. Goods should always be placed carefully onto the shelving or racking, with the heavier items at the bottom to avoid the system becoming top-heavy. The racking and shelving load weights limits should never be broken and the system must be securely bolted to the floor. It is also a wise move to check the storage systems on a regular basis to make sure that they have not been damaged by fork lift trucks. Having appropriate access space is a key concern and racking and shelving should be placed accordingly to allow 3enough space for manoeuvre.
Managing traffic
Whilst it is essential to avoid collisions of any kind, the most likely to result in serious injury are between people and fork lift trucks. It is therefore good practice to use separate traffic routes that are clearly marked to help reduce the chances of such an event. It is also a good idea to utilise a one-way system to prevent vehicles from colliding head on. Be sure to keep up to the maintenance of your fork lift trucks and check that reversing lights and audible alarms are working fully. All warehouse surfaces on which the vehicles will be driven should be smooth and even to prevent toppling. It is of course essential that all drivers are given proper training and that any visiting drivers are given an induction; so that they can understand how the warehouse traffic system works.
Fork lift truck operation
Whether the fork lift truck is loading or unloading, the driver must have enough space to carry out the task safely. Mark out safe areas for this to take place and train staff accordingly. Also be sure to put in place procedures that will prevent vehicles from moving off before the loading or unloading process is complete. Traffic lights are a good idea and if you have the space then physical restraints are even better.
Manual handling
Back problems and muscle strains are the most common kind of injuries for staff members that are undertaking manual handling of goods. Training on how to properly lift items can greatly help to cut down on such injuries. It is also essential to provide any devices that could help manual handling, such as trolleys, pallet movers and scissor lifts. In addition to injuries sustained whilst lifting, there is also the opportunity for staff members to collide with another worker or vehicle due to being distracted whilst picking. Such accidents can be avoided through the use of a voice directed warehouse management system. As the pickers receive information on which items to pick for the order and also directions on where to locate the goods; they are more able to pay attention to what is going on around them and avoid any potential hazards.
For further information on how a voice directed warehouse management system can help your operation visit www.bcpsoftware.com