Did you know that every year in Australia, there are thousands of people who suffer from injuries in the warehouse? In fact, it is one of the most dangerous places to work. Many of these injuries are preventable if the proper safety precautions are taken. In this guide, we will discuss some tips to help reduce the risk of warehouse injuries in 2023!
Biggest Causes of Injuries
Before we discuss the tips to reduce the risk of warehouse injuries, let us take a look at some of the biggest causes of injuries in warehouses. The most common ones include lifting heavy objects, working with hazardous materials, lack of protective equipment, and inadequate training.
Every year, hundreds of workers suffer from injuries due to these causes. For example, if a worker is required to lift more weight than they are physically capable of, this can cause injuries. Furthermore, if workers are not adequately trained on how to use machines and equipment, they may be at risk of injuring themselves or others.
Just some of the most common injuries in warehouses include sprains, strains, fractures, and cuts. Sadly, these can be caused by either working with hazardous materials or a lack of proper training.
Improving Your Warehouse Safety
Invest in Equipment – As mentioned, one of the main causes of warehouse injuries is a lack of proper equipment. Investing in the right tools and materials can go a long way in helping protect workers. Make sure you purchase the necessary protective gear, such as safety glasses and gloves, for each employee.
Furthermore, things like flatbed trolleys, forklifts, and other heavy-duty equipment should also be brought in to help reduce the risk of accidents. Search through the products of companies like Richmond Wheel & Castor Co to get an idea of the best warehouse equipment.
Train Employees – Warehouse workers need to be trained and must understand the importance of following safety protocols. Conduct regular training sessions for employees on how to safely use any equipment, warehouse material handling, and safe driving rules. Even if somebody has been on the job for a long time, it’s important to keep training them as new procedures and regulations are implemented.
Routine Maintenance – Regularly inspecting the warehouse for any faults or damages can also help prevent workplace injuries. For example, check each piece of equipment and machinery, as well as the building itself, to ensure that they are in safe working condition. Also, look out for unsafe practices and potential hazards, such as wet floors and damaged stairs.
Personal Protective Equipment – Workers need to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when necessary. This can include hard hats, safety glasses, protective clothing and gloves for protection from flying objects, sharp edges, and other potential hazards.
Monitor Changing Regulations and Guidance – Furthermore, it is important to be aware of and monitor changing regulations and safety guidance, as well as industry standards. In Australia, The Work Health and Safety Act 2011 is one of the main pieces of legislation dealing with the health and safety of workers. Staying up to date on the latest regulations and standards is crucial for an effective safety program.
Health Surveillance – Finally, employers must also consider implementing health surveillance programs to help monitor the health of workers. These programs are designed to detect any potential signs of occupational ill health and determine if there have been any changes in employees’ health or fitness levels. This will allow employers to identify any potential health issues before they become a problem and implement appropriate corrective action.
