Lesson 13: Warehouse Safety

Objective

By the end of this training, technicians will understand the importance of navigating warehouse hazards, organizing pallets safely, and maintaining a safe environment. Technicians will learn safe lifting ergonomics and the principles of Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) to prevent accidents.

Overview

Warehouse safety is crucial in an environment that stores pest control and lawn products. Failure to practice safety protocols may lead to harm or injury. This lesson covers warehouse protocols, dangers of blocked exits, and the importance of adhering to safety procedures to maintain an injury-free workspace. These rules and regulations are in place for everyone’s safety—and in many cases, are legally required. Remember: safety is no accident; the goal is to make it home safely each day.

Training Steps

1. Introductory Videos
   Reflect on how the following videos relate to your daily tasks:

• Warehouse health and safety hazards

• how to lift correctly-incorrectly animation video

• Lockout /Tagout (Loto) Safety Training Video | Affected Employees

2. Proper Lifting Ergonomics

• Remember the saying: "Lift with your knees, not your back."

• Key techniques include:

• Analyze before lifting and clear your path.

• Stand close to the load with feet shoulder-width apart.

• Squat with knees and hips bent.

• Ensure a firm grip and keep the load close to your body.

• Maintain straight posture, no twisting or leaning.

• Breathe steadily and wear appropriate PPE.

3. Note: Avoid carrying multiple bags of heavy items like fertilizers, and never carry items on just one shoulder.

4. Warehouse Hazards

• Slip and Fall: Clean up spilled granular products immediately to prevent slipping. If pesticide spills occur, clean them up carefully with proper PPE.

• Tripping Hazards: Shrink wrap and loose items around pallets can create tripping risks. Exercise caution in these areas.

• Pallet Safety: Per OSHA regulations, pallets should be stacked, not leaned against walls. When empty, stack pallets safely.

• Eye Protection and PPE: Always wear eye protection and PPE when handling products or moving through the warehouse.

• Ladder Safety: Secure ladders to the wall with ratchet straps to prevent accidents.

• Blocked Exits: Remove any obstructions from emergency exits.

• Flammable Materials: Secure all flammable materials in safety cabinets, and lock them after use.

• Bags and Containers: Ensure bags of granular products are sealed to prevent spills.

• Smoking Policy: Refer to the employee handbook for details.