A warehouse can be an exciting, dynamic place to work. However, it can also be dangerous. Your employer is required to comply with federal, state, and local regulations to minimize risks, but you play a vital role in keeping yourself and your coworkers safe. As a front line warehouse worker, here are some important warehouse safety tips to keep in mind.
Follow Your Training
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) makes it very clear that workers must be trained on each warehouse task that they perform. If you have not been signed off to operate a specific machine or perform a particular duty, don’t do it. Explain to your manager that you still need training for that task.
Pay attention to what you learn in training. Proper use of safety equipment and proper operation of machinery can go a long way toward reducing workplace accidents. Never take shortcuts.
Use Personal Protective Gear
Depending on your job and worksite, you might need items such as a hard hat, safety goggles, earplugs, or steel-toe shoes. Your employer might provide these items, or you might be expected to get your own. Either way, make sure you know exactly what gear you need and use it throughout your shift.
Pay Attention to Ergonomics
From lifting heavy items to performing repetitive motions, many workplace injuries are due to poor ergonomics. You should receive ergonomic training from your employer. If you don’t, be sure to ask for a guide to OSHA standards. Always follow proper procedures.
Look Out for Aisles
Warehouse aisles are a lot like streets. Heavy machinery, vehicles, and pedestrians are always moving in traffic patterns that can be quite elaborate. Look both ways, safely merge into traffic, and pay attention to all lights, signs, and markings.
Know Your Emergency Protocols
Your warehouse should conduct training on what to do in a variety of emergency situations, from evacuations to fires. Make sure you memorize these protocols, as emergencies don’t leave much time to look things up. In an emergency, you may need to act quickly and decisively to protect yourself and those around you.
Understand Reporting
In a warehouse, there are times when reporting a situation is unavoidable. For example, if an injury occurs, it either means that a safety protocol was overlooked or that something is wrong with a machine or a procedure. Report even minor cuts or bruises to a manager right away. Always report unsafe behavior as well, as this could lead to severe injuries.
If you believe your employer isn’t following OSHA standards, it’s essential to make a report to OSHA. You can file your complaint online, by phone, or by fax or snail mail.
Warehouses are sometimes dangerous. As a front line worker, you can do a lot to minimize the risks. Always report problems and follow your safety training.
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