Warehouse accidents happen more often than people think. Many people will find themselves a sufferer of a warehouse accident. However, the majority of the time, these accidents can very well be prevented with taking preventative measures.
1. Fully engage in the video– Your employer will most likely have you watch a video when you first get hired. In the video, there will be useful information on how to protect yourself in the warehouse, as well as ways to lift, carry, bend, kneel, etc.
2. Put forth what you learn– In a warehouse, there are many hours spent standing, lifting, bending, etc. Knowing that, you should always make sure that the tips you have learned in the video from your employer are always in your mind.
3. Help a co-worker out– If you see a co-worker lifting something heavier than they should, go over and help them. When it comes to accident prevention, it’s not just you that you have to be worried about; it’s essential to watch out for others as well.
4. Wear protective gear- If your warehouse job requires you to wear a mask, knee pads, back brace, etc., you should abide by the guidelines. You can benefit yourself greatly by wearing the protective gear.
5. Pay attention to hazard tags– When you work in a warehouse, 9 times out of 10, there will be hazard tags on specific things to warn you. You should pay close attention, and always remember what you have learned; it could really save your life, as well as others around you.
6. Ladder safety– Always make sure to position a ladder in a secure spot. Ladder falls are on the rise, and many people aren’t thinking when they set up a ladder. If you find yourself guessing if you will fall, chances are you should move the ladder to a more secure area.
7. Keeping clean– Making sure you’re working in a clean area is very crucial. Anything from spills, to work materials lying around, your co-workers or yourself could easily trip over them. Always making sure to pick up after yourself is also important. Moreover, if you’re walking through the warehouse and see something out of place, it’s essential to pick it up and put it where it belongs.
8. Malfunctioning machines- If you notice a machine is malfunctioning do yourself and your co-workers a favor and put a sign up, as well as report it to management. If the other people aren’t warned, it could be very harmful.
9. Exit signs– Make sure the warehouse you’re working in has enough exits, as well as signs, so you and your co-workers know where to go in case of an emergency.
10. Educate yourself– If your employer has a safety meeting, or even just another video for you to watch, pay attention and engage in all of the information. Any new information is beneficial, and could potentially save your life.
If you have been hurt in a warehouse accident, Paula Robinson Esq. can fight for your rights and have your injuries covered by worker’s compensation. Contact Paula today at 215-530-7166
