Warehouse work can be extremely rewarding. Rolling up your sleeves and using your hands is a great way to earn a living, but it’s not without safety risks.
It doesn’t matter if you’ve been happily employed by the same company for decades or are currently searching for jobs hiring in Allentown, PA — safety must always come first. Some of the potential hazards for warehouse workers include the following, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration:
- Improper use of forklifts
- Incorrect stacking of products
- Not using PPE — personal protective equipment
- Failure to follow correct lockout/tagout procedures
- Insufficient fire safety supplies
- Repetitive motion injuries
During your shift, maintaining a healthy work environment should be your top priority, so using the right safety equipment is a must.
Four Types of Warehouse Safety Equipment You Should Be Using
Eyewash Station
If your eyes come in contact with a hazardous substance, drop everything and head to the eyewash station. Flushing the contaminated matter out immediately can prevent serious injury. Even if you’re not certain the substance came in contact with your eye, it’s always best to err on the side of caution.
Traffic Visibility Mirrors
A warehouse is a busy place. At any given time, there’s a variety of activities going on, meaning it’s essential to keep your eyes and ears open. Frequently checking traffic visibility mirrors will help you keep a close watch on your surroundings, so you don’t find yourself in a collision.
Handrails
Slips, trips, and falls are all too common in a warehouse setting, but holding onto guardrails can make a world of difference. Whether you’re on an overhead walkway or navigating a tricky situation on the warehouse floor, keeping a tight grip on the handrail can allow you to maintain your balance.
Anti-Fatigue Mats
Standing on your feet all day can take a toll on the body. Decrease the impact by standing on an anti–fatigue mat, which provides much-needed cushioning for your legs and spine. This is especially important if you’re on a slick surface, as these durable mats are slip-resistant.
OSHA requires employers to have certain safety equipment on hand. If your employer is in violation of these standards, speak up. You can file an anonymous complaint with OSHA if you don’t want to address your boss directly, because you fear retaliation.
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