3 Types Of Equipment To Keep Your Warehouse Up to Regulation

When you own a warehouse, you have a responsibility to keep your employees safe. It’s also important to be sure that you meet all OSHA regulations to avoid fines and other actions being taken against you. There are many types of safety equipment you can consider for your warehouse, but these are some of the most critical types you need.

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Fall Protection Equipment

Warehouses require employees to work off the ground at times. This is because storage often goes as high as 25 feet to make use of all the available space. When employees are working off the ground, OSHA has regulations for their safety.

OSHA requires fall protection if you are working more than a few feet off the ground. One of the most popular options is a fall harness. This is a harness or vest that the employee wears.

OSHA requires a fall prevention system to include a full body harness, a lanyard that is energy absorbing and self-retracting, and a stable anchor point or lifeline. Fall systems must prevent the person from falling more than 6 feet before being restrained by the device.

Guard rails may be appropriate in some situations. If guard rails are installed, you may not be required to provide a fall arresting system, because the guard rail provides fall protection. However, warehouses can’t always use guard rails because items must be able to be accessed by equipment. If you’re looking to upgrade your fall protection equipment in Lehigh Valley, PA, contact us!

Loading Dock Equipment

Loading dock equipment is also essential for OSHA compliance. Safety rails, chains, or bars are one important type of loading dock equipment. These can prevent falls from loading docks when the dock isn’t in use. They may also prevent forklift operators from falling off the loading dock when working.

Another type of equipment you should consider is traffic lights. The most common type is a traffic-style light that has a red light and a green light. This lets forklift operators or pedestrians know when it’s safe to walk or drive on or near the dock, which can prevent accidents.

Lastly, loading ramps are often required by OSHA. Loading ramps are used when loading a trailer that is a different height than the loading dock. Loading docks should have a slip-resistant surface.

Another option is an adjustable loading ramp. This allows you to adjust the height of the loading ramp to be level with the trailer or truck that you are loading.

You may also want to consider a loading dock seal or shelter. These can prevent employees from being exposed to inclement weather when loading and unloading trailers.

PPE

PPE, or personal protective equipment, is also required for warehouses. Generally, you are responsible for providing PPE for employees, and ensuring that the equipment is used properly.

Hard hats are one type of PPE that warehouse workers should wear. Hardhats are designed to protect employee’s heads from falling objects and debris. High-visibility jackets are also required. These jackets make employees more visible to forklift operators. They are typically yellow or orange. Safety glasses may be required as well. Safety glasses are needed if there is a chance of eye injury due to chemicals, mechanical objects, or debris getting into your eyes.

Steel toe boots are often required in warehouses because items can fall on an employee’s foot and cause damage. Generally, employees are required to have their own protective footwear. However, you may be required to have steel toes that go over the person’s shoes for employees who don’t have steel-toe shoes.