The day-to-day operation of a warehouse involves a complex system of moving parts. Between machinery and the workers operating them, many safety hazards are present on the job. Warehouse operations pose a constant risk of a hazardous work environment, but taking the right safety measures can help reduce the number of accidents and employee injuries.
Learn about the most common warehouse safety hazards and how to avoid them to protect the well-being of workers and reduce future incidents on the job.
Slips and Falls
Slips and falls contribute to a great number of warehouse injuries. It’s important for warehouses and business owners to implement the proper risk management techniques to prevent fall-related incidents.
The most effective way to reduce slips and falls in a warehouse is by repairing damaged walkways, adding slip-resistant mats, and providing consistent employee training to help promote safety guidelines.
Repetitive Motions
Warehouse workers can sustain injuries from a buildup of strenuous activity. The day-to-day operations that require manual labor can take a toll on employees, from reduced range of motion to lower back and neck pain.
The best way to address repetitive motion injuries in a warehouse is to assess the biomechanics of warehouse operations. It’s important to have coached breaks, proper handling techniques, and strategies that improve employees’ range of motion.
Contamination and Hazardous Materials
The best way to avoid the risk of exposing warehouse workers to contamination is by implementing proper safety procedures, such as using personal protective equipment. Gas monitoring devices can also help if your warehouse is at risk of poor indoor air quality.
Warehouse operations involve more hazardous materials than other business enclosures. Hazardous substances include flammable agents, radioactive materials, or any equipment that can injure or harm an employee. In addition to these harmful materials, it’s important to identify airborne toxins that can impact the health and safety of warehouse workers.
Accepting the risk of warehouse operations is necessary to complete business objectives. Moreover, it’s essential for business owners to reinforce safety procedures to reduce the severity and frequency of employee injuries. The primary goal of any organization should be for employees to leave as they arrived—in safe and optimal condition.