When it comes to warehouse safety, OSHA citations are something that no business wants to experience. OSHA (the Occupational Safety and Health Administration) provides guidelines for workplace safety and can issue citations if these standards are not met. It is important for businesses to understand what the OSHA requirements are and how to avoid receiving citations. OSHA recently Cited 3 Amazon Warehouses in Florida, Illinois and New York, which is an example of why you should make sure you are in compliance in your warehouse. ¹
Let’s discuss some tips for avoiding OSHA citations in the warehouse:
Inspections and Upkeep of Equipment
OSHA requires that all equipment be inspected regularly to ensure that it meets safety standards. This includes forklifts, pallet jacks, ladders, conveyor belts, etc. All pieces of equipment should be inspected on a regular basis by trained personnel and any issues should be addressed immediately to prevent potential accidents or injuries. They also need to keep these inspections for at least 2 months to safeguard themselves from any possible incidents. Additionally, any worn-out parts should be replaced as soon as possible so that they do not cause further damage or put workers at risk.
Proper Training
It is important that all warehouse workers receive proper training on how to use equipment safely and efficiently. Not only will this help prevent accidents, but it will also ensure that employees are productive and reduce downtime while working in the warehouse. Additionally, workers should receive refresher courses periodically so that they stay up-to-date on safety regulations and procedures. Employers also need to keep a record of operator’s licenses for the pieces of equipment that they are running to make sure everyone using equipment has the license to run that piece of equipment.
Housekeeping
Keeping the warehouse clean is essential for avoiding OSHA citations. Stacks of boxes or other materials should never block fire doors or exits as this can impede evacuation during an emergency situation. Additionally, all materials should be stored off the ground so that they do not become a tripping hazard for workers walking around the warehouse floor. Finally, debris should be cleaned up immediately so as not to create an unsafe environment which could lead to injuries or accidents.
Taking proactive steps such as inspecting equipment regularly, providing proper training, and keeping your warehouse clean are keyways to avoid receiving an OSHA citation when it comes to warehouse safety standards. By following these tips, you can ensure a safe workplace while also preventing costly fines from OSHA due to negligence or lack of adherence to safety regulations. Thus, it is important for businesses who operate warehouses take these steps seriously in order to maintain a safe working environment for their employees while avoiding potential legal issues down the line from OSHA violations! For an easy way to do inspections on your forklift and have a place to store operators licenses, check out the MasterCheck App today and sign up here for your free trial.
¹"OSHA Cites 3 Amazon Warehouses"-By: Alexandra Olson - Jan 19, 2023