Working in a warehouse is no joke. It can be a hot, dirty, and dangerous place to work. Dust, fumes, and other airborne particles can create an unsafe work environment and lead to serious health problems for employees.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, on average, 16 workers die in the United States’ warehousing and storage sector every year. Workers in this sector reported an injury and illness rate of 5 out of every 100 employees.
One of the easiest ways to improve worker safety in your warehouse or distribution center is by having a clean and organized space.
Let’s get started!
The Dangerous Reality of a Dirty Warehouse
Warehouses are a dangerous place to work. The average worker in this sector has an injury and illness rate of 5 out of every 100 employees. That’s right, 16 workers die in the US each year because they were working in a warehouse or distribution center.
And it doesn’t stop there… dust, fumes, and other airborne particles can create an unsafe work environment that leads to serious health problems for employees (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
One of the easiest ways to improve worker safety is to have a clean and organized space.
Some of the most common dangers of a dirty warehouse include:
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Slips, trips, and falls are the leading cause of injury in the warehousing and storage industry (Bureau of Labor Statistics). These accidents often happen because of cluttered aisles or debris on the floor. In addition, poor lighting can also contribute to these types of accidents.
Respiratory problems
Respiratory problems are another severe health concern for warehouse workers. Dust, fumes, and other airborne particles can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat and cause difficulty breathing. In extreme cases, this can lead to chronic lung diseases such as asthma or bronchitis.
What’s more, some of the chemicals used in warehouses (such as cleaning products) can also cause respiratory problems.
Chemical Burns
Warehouses often use strong chemicals to clean floors and equipment. If these chemicals are not used properly, they can cause skin irritation or burns. In addition, workers may be exposed to harmful fumes if they work in an area where chemicals are being used.
Chemicals are often stored in warehouses, which can lead to dangerous fumes and exposure if they are not stored or used correctly.
Forklift accidents
Forklifts are common in warehouses and are essential for moving heavy loads. However, they can also be dangerous if not used properly. There are approximately 85,000 forklift-related accidents each year, resulting in about 35,000 injuries (OSHA).
Heat Stress
Working in a warehouse can be hot and sweaty. In fact, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has classified warehouses as “high-heat environments.” This is because the combination of high temperatures and physical activity can lead to heat stress.
Heat stress occurs when the body’s temperature regulation is overwhelmed. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. It can lead to heatstroke in severe cases.
Noise Pollution
Noise pollution is a serious problem in many warehouses. The constant noise from machinery, equipment, and other workers can lead to hearing loss over time. In addition, the noise can also cause stress and anxiety.
Back Injuries
Back injuries are common in warehouses because of the heavy lifting often required. Workers may also suffer from back injuries if they bend or stoop for long periods.
Fires and Explosions
Fires and explosions are a real danger in warehouses because of the flammable materials often stored there. In addition, the use of forklifts and other machinery can create sparks that can ignite a fire.
Working in a warehouse is a dangerous job. But fortunately, you can mitigate many of these risks by keeping your warehouse clean and organized. A clean warehouse is a safe warehouse.
The Benefits of Having a Clean and Organized Warehouse
When it comes to warehouse cleaning, there are many benefits to be had. A clean and organized warehouse is a safe and healthy workplace for employees.
The following are some of the benefits of having a clean and organized warehouse:
A safe and healthy workplace for employees:
When a warehouse is clean and organized, it is a safer environment to work in. There are fewer trip hazards, and employees are less likely to come into contact with harmful chemicals and other dangerous materials.
Plus, a safe and healthy workplace can lead to higher morale and productivity among employees.
Fewer accidents, injuries, and illnesses:
A clean and organized warehouse is less likely to have accidents and injuries. Employees are less likely to trip over clutter or slip on a wet floor.
When the warehouse is clean and organized, employees are less likely to come into contact with dangerous materials.
This can lead to fewer worker’s compensation claims and less lost time due to accidents and injuries.
Improved morale and productivity:
When employees feel safe and comfortable in their work environment, they are more likely to be productive.
A clean and organized warehouse can improve morale by providing a space that is free of clutter and hazardous materials.
Plus, employees will find the materials they need easier when the warehouse is well organized, which can lead to increased efficiency and productivity.
Reduced liability risks:
As mentioned above, a safe and clean warehouse is less likely to have accidents and injuries. This can lead to reduced liability risks for the company.
When there are fewer accidents and injuries, there is less chance of lawsuits or other legal action being taken against the company.
A well-organized and clean warehouse can also help to reduce the risk of theft and vandalism.
Improved customer satisfaction:
If your business ships products directly to customers, it is vital to maintain a clean and organized warehouse.
Customers do not want to receive damaged or dirty products. A neat and tidy warehouse will help to ensure that products are shipped in good condition and arrive on time.
This can lead to improved customer satisfaction and repeat business.
Now that you know the benefits of a clean and organized warehouse, let’s discuss how to achieve this.
Tips for keeping your warehouse clean and safe
The following are some tips for keeping your warehouse clean and organized:
Establish a cleaning schedule and stick to it:
One of the best ways to keep your warehouse clean is by establishing a regular cleaning schedule. Depending on the size of your operation and the amount of traffic in your warehouse, this can be daily, weekly, or monthly.
Create a system for organization:
An organized warehouse is a safe and efficient workplace. Develop a system for storing and organizing materials in your warehouse. This will help employees find what they need quickly and help to prevent accidents.
Inspect incoming shipments:
When products arrive at your warehouse, take the time to inspect them for damage or dirt. This will help prevent these items from ending up in your customer’s hands.
Keep a clean and organized workspace:
A cluttered workspace can lead to accidents and injuries. Clean up your work area at the end of each day. This will help keep your warehouse safe and organized.
Implement a safety program:
An effective safety program is essential for any business, but it is crucial in a warehouse environment. A safety program will help to reduce accidents and injuries in your workplace.
By following these tips, you can create a clean and organized warehouse that is safe and efficient. A well-maintained warehouse will lead to improved morale, productivity, and customer satisfaction.
Hire a professional cleaning company.
When choosing a professional cleaning company, be sure to ask about their experience in the warehouse environment and ask for references from past clients.
By following these tips, you can create a clean and organized warehouse that is safe and efficient. A well-maintained warehouse will lead to improved morale, productivity, and customer satisfaction.
If you’re looking for a reliable and safe cleaning company in the Baton Rouge area, our team at Advanced Office Care can help.
We have years of experience in the warehouse environment and can provide you with the high-quality cleaning services you need to keep your operation running smoothly. Contact us today to learn more about our services, or complete the form below to schedule a free consultation.
