Storage systems advice
Storage areas should be properly designated and clearly marked. The layout of storage and handling areas should avoid tight corners, awkwardly placed doors, pillars, uneven surfaces and changes of gradient.
Inspect pallets each time before use to make sure that they are in a safe condition. Take damaged pallets out of use for repair or destruction. Handle empty pallets carefully – do not drag or throw them about. Pallets should be loaded correctly to ensure load stability; banding, shrink or stretch wrap can help with this.
If you use pallet racking in your warehouse, make sure the pallets you use are suitable for the type of racking you have.
Racking systems should be properly designed and installed, this includes being able to safely take the load of the goods being stored. Protect racking if it is likely to be struck by lift trucks and other vehicles.
Inspect racking regularly to make sure it is repaired and maintained properly and is safe. You should use three types of inspection:
■ immediate reporting of damage and defects;
■ visual inspections at regular intervals;
■ ‘expert’ inspections carried out at intervals by a competent person.
Don’t wait for someone to get hurt!
