Warehouses present many risk factors that can lead to accidents and injuries. For example, high, over-stacked shelves can collapse, falling onto workers and hurting them. Because rows of shelves stacked with heavy boxes are a common sight in warehouses, it is important to know how to stack items on the shelves to avoid accidents and damage to stock. Here are some useful tips.
Designate A Shelf for A Specific Type of Item
Similar items should be placed together on shelves designated only for them. Following this rule helps you and the other workers organise the warehouse, making it easier for everyone to find what they need. Having dedicated shelving also allows you to control the weight placed on each shelf, preventing over-stacking and lessening the risk of collapse.
Use Visual Cues
Visual clues are helpful if you are using low shelves that you regularly transport from one area of the warehouse to another. Paint markings on the floor to determine where the shelves should be placed. Use a paint colour that corresponds with that of the shelf. Clear markings help staff members group the shelves together and keep the warehouse from becoming overcrowded.
Wrap the Stacks
To secure the boxes on the shelves, protect them with a plastic wrap or tie them up using thick nylon ropes. This will prevent them from falling when workers move the around the warehouse.
Avoid Pest Infestation
Stacks should be well-organised, dust-free and placed away from sunlight and moisture to avoid unwanted attention from pests such as insects and mice. In addition, they should not be placed near entrances, exits or anywhere with access to the outside. Pest infestations can damage the items being stored and can pose health risks to your workers.
Preventing warehouse accidents starts with properly organising stacks of heavy loads. But, without sturdy shelves, one would not be able to do this. Shelving Shop Group in New Zealand is your source of durable shelving solutions that keep your warehouses and stores organised and accident free. Our range of cantilever racking and pallet racking is what you need to complete your warehouse system.
We have been in the business for over 2 decades. Trust us to have your requirements covered. Contact Shelving Shop Group today and let us know how we can help you.
