Lifting

When working in warehouses, it is common for employees to lift and reach during the work day. Ensure workers use proper lifting techniques. This includes bending with legs instead of back to avoid a herniated disc. Train employees to test items for weight, bulk and size before lifting. Encourage them to ask for help if they feel the load is too heavy.

Ensure aisles and floors are free of items that could cause a fall, such as slick materials or cluttered areas. Also make sure all docks, entrances and exits are clearly marked for safety reasons.

Reaching

Many warehouse tasks involve a lot of reaching and bending. These repetitive movements, especially those done with poor posture can cause musculoskeletal injuries in the neck and back. Long reaches, where the forces involved are high and the stretches last more than a few seconds can also be dangerous for employees.

Large warehouses can become chaotic, and aisles and passageways can get cluttered quickly. Employees should be trained to keep a clear workspace by quickly moving or removing objects blocking their path, properly tying down cables, putting away equipment and maintaining the proper clearance between aisles.

Falling

Many warehouses have items stacked high, creating a falling hazard that could crush or injure workers. To prevent this, it is important to remind workers to remove one load at a time from higher shelves and to use ladders properly. In addition, it is necessary to have proper lighting in warehouses and to post clear safety signs throughout the facility.

Worker injuries can cause lost time, which costs an organization money. The loss of time can come from an injured worker, cleaning up spills or broken equipment, and even repairing the damaged warehouse structure.