The choice of material handling elements and processes has a knock-on effect on all aspects of the supply chain.

From the warehouse options involving pallet racks and shrink-wrap methods to material sourcing options.

For example, by knowing exactly where your distribution centres are, you can optimise driver routes to minimise time on road and fuel use. Another example is the choice of reinforced cardboard cages, in situations where your metal cages get stuck in the re-distribution system.

Keeping on top of all these elements will reduce down time, and increase profits. Optimum efficiency and safety standards can always be improved by tweaking existing operations. In the concluding part of our article on how material handling elements can produce a safer warehouse, we’ll discuss some more elements you can check and adjust today.

Protect Work Areas.

With all the rules and painted walkways, forklift drivers still drive through pedestrian-only zones. One mindset is that they can always raise the forks in time to avoid an accident. Sadly this isn’t true, as at the speeds they are travelling, it would take a full five seconds to raise the forks above head height. This is more than enough time to do damage to a human being. Protect your staff by encircling their work areas with steel barriers and railings. These should be erected around workstations, assembly points picking points etc.; anywhere people tend to gather.

Be Clutter Free, Be Accident Free.

One common and dangerous accident we see is the trips that occur when a worker gets their foot stuck in a piece of shrink wrapping. These are usually left attached to a pallet edge. Not looking, the worker gets one foot stuck in, whilst walking, and the other foot catches leading to a huge spill. Broken bones, sprained wrists, damaged goods are all consequences of the presence of clutter. Ensure all shrink wrap is cleared after pallets are opened up. Storage areas should be clear of discarded packaging. Large bins should be provided at work stations prone to clutter and workers encouraged to ‘clean-as you-go’.

Use Less Forklifts.

 Forklifts are vital to any distribution process, yet they are a major cause of accidents and deaths. You can reduce their untoward impact on your staff and warehouse by reducing the number of forklifts working at any given time. For tasks like tipping loads off a trailer, they are the best option; but other tasks like taking the sorted pallets around the warehouse can be carried out by other machines. The electric ride-on pallet truck, either single or double length, can quickly and safely move the goods around the warehouse.

Go Easy On The Bends.

Workers across all warehouses, do one or all of four basic motions for the length of their shift. They bend to pick or throw, they stretch to reach goods, they kneel to tie shrink wrap. They also stand, usually in one spot, for hours. These motions, done at a stretch, for a long period strains the musculoskeletal system. The use of aids like pallet lifts, scissors lift tables can help reduce injuries and reduce claims for compensation.

Avoid Storage Wars.

A fire will destroy everything in its path, usually before the WMFS arrives. Most warehouse fires will be fuelled by the items IN the warehouse. Storing flammable liquids, chemicals and gases requires paying great attention to details such as their volatility, their reaction in the presence of other gases, recommended storage container etc. To protect workers and your business, always store hazardous materials in code compliant safety cabinets.

Managing a distribution centre involves keeping a finger on the pulse (or an eye in the sky via security cameras), but it can be done. Constant monitoring and fine-tuning of processes will ensure smooth and profitable operations. Monarch Shelving supplies cabinets, bins, pallet racks, lifts; practically all you need to guarantee warehouse safety and efficiency. We combine our vast stock with the best prices in the North West. Contact us for your shelving and other warehouse needs.