Know When You Need To Use Workplace Safety Items

If you own a business with warehouses that have a lot of stock, you’ll no doubt have a lot of manual handling and workplace materials handling happening on site. In these work environments, workplace safety awareness is vital for the safety of your premises, and more importantly – your employees.

Both employers and staff need to be aware of the correct safety items required when carrying out certain jobs. Manual handling, and materials handling, products can help you eliminate or reduce manual effort in the workplace, while boosting productivity and ensuring workplace safety.

Today we’ll look at the importance of using workplace safety items in the workplace, and the benefits proper safety implementation can bring to your business.

The Importance of Using Manual Handling Products

Safety procedures can sometimes be overlooked in workplaces, due to insufficient time and resources, or in an attempt to cut corners to save money. However, when safety procedures are properly implemented there are major benefits for your business, including:

• higher employee satisfaction
• increased productivity
• minimised risk of injury
• fewer workplace disruptions
• lower absenteeism

Here are some guidelines for correct workplace safety.

Safe Lifting with Elevating and Lifting Equipment

How do you know when you should be using safety equipment for lifting?

In the warehouse, it’s vital that forklifts or hydraulic dollies are used to lift items that are too heavy. Safety equipment is implemented in order to minimise workplace injury, so although it may be time consuming to implement its use, it does pay off in the long run.

When a load requires transporting, firstly assess what method is the best option for its movement. If lifting is the most suitable method, check the route to ensure no obstacles are in the way and ensure there is enough space for the load at its destination.

Safe lifting techniques should always be carried out and the load should not obstruct the view of the lifter. Use all materials handling equipment carefully and follow the proper operating procedures including push rather than pull, whenever possible and lean in the direction that is being travelled. Also, never drive a forklift or use other powered equipment without training or authorisation.

Signage and Bollards for Safe Work Areas

Not sure when to use safety signs or bollards?

You must use signage and bollards to create safe and secure work areas, and ensure all warehouse floors are free of ‘slip and trip’ hazards. Mark out any areas and pathways that employees are to avoid. And carry out regular safety checks to make sure the floor is always free of stray cords, liquids and any other potentially hazardous items.

It is also essential that any cracks and pits in the flooring are attended to as these can cause serious injuries to employers as well as damaging expensive machinery.

Keep Staff Safe from Hazardous Zones

How do I label and store hazardous materials?

Dangerous equipment should be stored away in an area that is clearly labeled and safe walkways should be highlighted through necessary signage. The easiest way to illuminate hazardous zones is by using tape or painting black and white stripes on the floor of the designated area. This enables employees to be aware of dangerous surroundings and can be useful in avoiding accidents that can cause serious injury.

For more safety guidelines, and to view an extensive range of manual handling and materials handling equipment, visit MHA Products – Australia’s largest supplier of workplace and safety equipment. They’ll find the right safety product solutions for you. Contact MHA Products for more information or to arrange an obligation-free quote.