Not every warehouse has chemicals, but staff in warehouses that do house them should follow proper procedures to ensure their own safety and the safety of others. Improper handling can result in a deadly disaster. The following safety tips will help ensure all employees understand the correct way to handle chemicals in the warehouse.
Focus on Safe Storage
There are special considerations to consider when you’re storing and transporting hazardous chemicals. Staff should utilize the correct safety containers, place the items in the right spot, and label the materials properly. Not following these precautions could result in hazardous scenarios.
Set up a designated space for the chemicals to avoid cross-contamination. Ensure workers correctly label all containers with weather-resistant labels. Proper labeling is critical if you’re shipping hazardous chemicals. Check on the hazardous materials at least once a week. Follow these safe storage tips to protect your stored chemicals.
Plan Ahead After Assessing Risks
Safety should be the top priority at the warehouse. Emphasizing safety will ensure the warehouse operates smoothly and efficiently. Creating a safety strategy helps move your warehouse toward the highest level of protection.
As you plan, go through the risks and name your objectives. The plan should be about overall safety for all workers in the warehouse, not only those handling hazardous materials. Take this opportunity to ensure you also have a risk management plan in place. This strategy should include the following:
- What to do if there’s a medical emergency
- How to handle a chemical spill
- The proper way to evacuate
The better prepared your team is for an emergency, the better.
Train Staff Properly
A well-trained staff is crucial to workplace safety. All employees should have proper training and stay up-to-date with safety education. Workers should understand the basics, such as no drinking or eating near the chemicals and avoiding handling contact lenses around hazardous materials.
The more your staff engages in the safety information, the more they’ll retain. Effective training could mean the difference between panicking and staying calm under pressure.
Follow these safety tips to ensure proper chemical handling in the warehouse. You want the employees to understand how crucial it is to take safety seriously and follow the precautions.