6 Material Handling Tips for a Safer Workplace

Those in the materials handling industry know that risk factors exist, especially where manual tasks are involved. Tasks such as lifting, carrying and pushing can make the workplace unsafe and leave employees vulnerable to injury. Such injuries can come with significant costs to your business, including medical costs, lost productivity, and decreased employee morale.

As a company, preventative measures are your best protection against the unforeseen; the safer your workplace, the lesser risk.

Here are 6 handling tips you can follow to ensure a safer workplace.

1. Minimise Ergonomic Risk Factors

Anything that leads to unnecessary physical fatigue in employees is an ergonomic risk factor.

The manual material handling environment is a hotbed for such risk. Anywhere your employees are required to twist, bend, lift and carry repetitively, there is an element of risk.

Identify these factors early and implement control measures so that you limit employee exposure and reduce the risk.

2. Check and Ensure the Standard of Personal Protective Equipment

OSH requires that every employer protects their employees from hazards in the workplace. The provision of protective equipment is one measure they enforce to ensure employee safety. 

Take the time to ensure equipment is in good working order and capable of serving its protective purpose. Have ready access to replacement equipment where required.

3. Upgrade Your Equipment

Upgrade your equipment regularly. Suppliers constantly improve their products for end-user safety, satisfaction, and for better workplace efficiencies.

Use machinery where possible. Tools like conveyor belts and forklifts reduce manual tasks and the associated risks and provide the additional advantage of increased productivity and profitability.

4. Reduce Noise and Vibration

Noise and vibration are unavoidable in a busy plant. Ensuring you protect your employees' hearing is imperative.

In addition to the risk of hearing loss, ongoing exposure to vibration can also lead to work-related musculoskeletal disorders and general employee fatigue.

Worksafe Aotearoa has some great advice on how to manage noise and vibration risk safely and effectively

5. Respond to Reports of Employee Fatigue

Despite your best efforts, your employees may still succumb to fatigue. Set up a culture that encourages your team to report discomfort or signs of fatigue so that you can address the issue quickly, implement measures to improve the situation and avoid the risk the serious injury.

6. Use the Right Equipment 

Choosing equipment best suited to your workplace will ensure that you provide a safe and efficient environment.

Provide adequate training for all operators and ensure all operational procedures are adhered to. Maintain and service all equipment regularly.

Here at Hyster, we know a thing or two about materials handling and workplace safety. Our team of experienced sales representatives will align your business with the equipment you need to get the job done and keep your team safe.

Contact us today to discuss your needs.