Safe Storage Practices

by Jim Coley on 2010-09-16 04:14:17

Every warehouse should ensure that there is no compromise on safety when planning storage methods. There are some ground rules to follow and many of these carry a legal requirement under the codes of practice of the HSE Act 1992 (http://www.osh.dol.govt.nz/law/hse-information.shtml).

Whilst it is difficult to make recommendations that cover every workplace, here are 4 tips that will minimize risk to people & products:

1.    Racking-  good quality, installed by professionals & dyna-bolted to the floor
2.    Pallets- check for sound construction & weight / volume capability
3.    Bulk stacks- 450mm  gap between stack & wall ,with 1m clearance on all other sides. Must not block any accesses/exits. Choose the best stack method for the product involved ( eg column, square, pyramid , etc)
4.    Height- must not be stored within 1m of the ceiling,roof or sprinkler heads.

As with most things, common sense applies. It is a good idea to schedule routine checks of storage areas to identify & correct any hazards. An efficient warehouse should also be a safe warehouse.

Jim Coley
Online Distribution
www.onlinedistribution.co.nz

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