Pallet Rack: Practicing Good Work Habits as
Recommended by OSHA
The
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA), part of the U.S. Department of Labor,
has many recommendations about how good work practices
can minimize the possibility of injury when working
around pallet rack in warehouses. Here are some
of the top suggestions offered by OSHA:
- Do
not take shortcuts: Workers may reach across
a pallet to handle a load instead of walking
around a pallet to pick it up properly. Reaching
adds significant stress to the shoulders and
back. OSHA recommends that employees should
be reminded of proper ergonomic techniques and
safe
lifting techniques when working around pallet
rack.
- Avoid
unexpected exertions: Employees may come across
a box that is heavier than they expected, or
a box may fall apart when an employee tries
to lift it. OSHA recommends that all boxes be
clearly labeled with their weight. OSHA also
suggests that companies tell suppliers to ship
items in sturdy boxes.
- Wear
proper footwear: Pallet rack selectors will
be standing on their feet for long periods of
time on concrete surfaces, causing fatigue and
tendon problems. Pallet rack selectors also
face the possibility that an item could fall
on their feet. OSHA recommends that warehouse
managers educate their employees about proper
footwear—shoes with solid support, non-skid
soles, adequate padding, and good shock absorption.
Employees who are not wearing proper footwear
should be removed from areas where their feet
may become injured.
In
addition to employee caution when working around
pallet rack, pallet
racking maintenance is another important consideration
when ensuring that your warehouse is as safe as
it can be. All of the new and used pallet rack
sold by Ace Industrial is well-maintained and
inspected for safety. For more information on
installing the best pallet rack system at the
most affordable price, call Ace Industrial Equipment
at (800) 300-6034.
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