A safe warehouse is one where safety is ingrained in the company culture, where everyone feels empowered to recommend safety improvements, and where frequent audits take place. The following warehouse safety tips can help you evaluate various areas in your warehouse operation to make employees safer while working on and around your warehouse equipment.
Here’s a Checklist One Might Add to a Routine Warehouse Safety Audit:
Electrical Safety
Ensure outlets function.
Install and maintain high-visibility lights.
Workspace Safety
Avoid slip and fall hazards by cleaning spills immediately.
Clear aisles to remove tripping hazards.
Make sure all work areas are kept clear of clutter.
Are staff Wearing the Right Gear?
Protective and high-visibility workwear should be worn by staff when working in the warehouse. For specific tasks, additional safety gear may be required, such as protective eyewear, gloves, earplugs, and hard hats.
Fire Safety
Clearly mark all exits.
Remove all fire hazards.
Make sure extinguishers are easily accessible and up to code.
Make sure exits are free of obstructions.
Adequate Safety Signage?
Signage acts as a constant reminder for staff to wear the appropriate safety gear and to abide by the warehouse safety procedures. Signage can also highlight any potential dangers throughout your facility, helping to avoid serious injuries or incidences in the warehouse.
Hazardous Material Safety
Clearly label all chemicals.
Make sure eyewash stations are in working order.
Make sure the MSDS for all chemicals are readily available to all employees.
A stable logistics safety program goes way beyond a set of policies and procedures. It’s essential is to develop a pervasive, operations-wide culture that understands that safety is simply smart business and that it applies to absolutely everyone.
