Brace yourselves, summer is coming! If anything, this recent surprise of February warmth has shown us that we need to start preparing ourselves for when the days do begin to get warmer. Things may have cooled down again, but it’s only a matter of weeks before the sun starts to heat things back up. To help you fight this and keep your warehouse productive, we have some handy tips for staying cool this summer.

Switch off unessential tech when not in use

Almost all machinery and electronics output some form of heat. A simple way to keep the temperature down is to ensure that devices are switched off overnight or when you do not need them. Additionally, be sure to check that all your machinery is inspected on a regular basis. This is to ensure all aspects of the machine’s cooling system work as they should.

Install an air conditioning or ventilation unit

This will ensure that the building stays at a comfortable temperature for your employees. While it may be a big investment, most modern air conditioning units are quite energy efficient. This means the costs to run are much lower than you might expect.

Keep workers hydrated

Providing adequate hydration stations is one of the easiest and cost-effective ways to keep your employees cool and productive. Not only can hydration boost productivity, but it can reduce the likelihood of mistakes being made through fatigue or dizziness. If your employees complain about any of the following, it could be down to dehydration:

• Tired and sleepy
• Headaches
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Dry mouth, lips and eyes

Review your dress code

While the majority of warehouses have some form of informal dress code, summer variations are limited. To keep your staff cool and safe, consider implementing a summer dress code that includes shorts, lighter t-shirts and even a hat and sunglasses if appropriate. Remember, any dress code should conform to minimum PPE requirements dependant on the role of each worker.

Keep things light

Roof materials can become extremely hot and this heat can transfer into the warehouse and put any ventilation or AC unit you have in place under serious strain. With this in mind, have you ever wondered why so many warehouses are white or other bright colours? Light shades are really handy for bouncing off heat and keeping temperatures cool in the summer months.

Cover outdoor areas

If you have an outdoor terrace, storage or smoking area, be sure to keep it covered. Installing a temporary or permanent roof over these areas not only keeps the employees protected from heat and sunburn but it can be useful for ensuring that any stock there does not melt, warp or damage in any other way under the sun.

Be ready with Monarch Shelving Ltd

Would you like to get your warehouse ready for summer and create a more efficient space with racking or shelving? Then get in touch with Monarch Shelving Ltd today to find out how our products can help your warehouse efficiency.