Forklifts, drum transporters, pallet trucks and other material handling equipment make moving heavy items much easier for employees. Employees should always be well aware that if this equipment is not used properly it can become a safety risk.

Before even using any new machinery all employees should have to attend required training on the best and safest way to handle the equipment. Once training is complete and employees show that they have a good understanding of how to appropriately use the equipment they should become licensed by the proper authority.

 Everyone in a warehouse should remain vigilant and focused to keep employees safe and also to avoid damaging property. Warehouse Management Solutions Company Smart Turn™ offers some helpful tips on how to prevent accidents and damage by heavy warehouse mechanical equpiment,

• Encourage employees to immediately report (anonymously if needed) unsafe conditions or behavior
• Use striping to delineate aisles and passageways, including doorway and loading dock areas
• Keep aisles and passageways clear at all times
• Don’t assume that the equipment operator can see you or react in time to stop. Assume that you are in his blind spot at all times.
• Look both ways and move slowly when emerging from aisles, doorways, or offices
• Prohibit walking on pallets and using forklifts and pallet jacks for rides
• Be careful around conveyors, making sure not to get body parts or clothing caught in the machinery’s moving parts.
• Teach employees to push manual material handling equipment whenever possible, rather than pull loads
• Make sure employees know where the on/off and emergency stop buttons are on equipment they work on or around.

In addition to implementing these helpful tips be sure to use signs and markers as a constant reminder to your employees to be safe. Keeping your property and employees safe in your warehouse will ensure a more productive plant.

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