Warehouse Health and Safety

There are many causes of warehouse accidents. The following will give you some idea of the areas to consider.

Vehicles

They are many kinds of vehicles operating in warehouses, such as pallet and forklift trucks.  All drivers should be trained in vehicle use, also warehouse safety procedures should be in place and followed. Where possible, pedestrians and vehicles should be segregated.   All vehicles should be serviced regularly.

Floors

Slips and trips cause many accidents. Floors should be kept dry and clear of obstacles like boxes and trailing wires. All spills should be cleaned up immediately and signage put in place until the floor is dry.  Consider using anti-slip flooring and make sure that all areas are well lit.

Equipment and Signage

Use warning signs where necessary, especially around dangerous machinery or toxic substances. Workers should be supplied with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) where hazards cannot be fully removed.

Training

Workers should be trained in the use of equipment and manual handling.  All workers should be made aware of the safety procedures in place in the warehouse, which should also be covered in the induction procedures when new workers start.  Everyone should also be aware of all procedures in place in the event of a fire.

Handling Stock

All workers should be trained in manual handling and where possible loads should be moved by mechanical means. Consideration should be made to where products are stored e.g. heavy loads should be on the bottom of racks. Badly stored products end up falling and injuring people.

Racking

Racks should be competently fitted and fixed to prevent them from collapsing.  Protection should also be put in place where possible to prevent damage from moving vehicles. Racks should never be climbed on.

If you need help in your warehouse, please get in touch or have a look at our support packages.