INVALUABLE COMMUNICATION TOOLS
BY REBECCA OSTERMAN
One of the most affordable and effective ways to enhance warehouse safety is by implementing warehouse safety signs.
Warehouses are the heart of a well-run supply chain. But they can also be dangerous work places, with workers moving to quickly fill orders and move product – often with the use of heavy machinery or near other potential hazards. In fact, warehouses report higher than average workplace accidents and injuries. Often, these issues stem from inadequate documentation, training, or safety signage.
Proper use of warehouse safety signs and labels can help create safer and more efficient warehouse environments by alerting employees and visitors to company policies and procedures, so they always know how to protect themselves and others.
Clear warehouse labels and signs play a key role not just in increasing warehouse efficiency, but also in helping to ensure a safe work environment. Warehouse safety signs serve as visual reminders of safety protocols and procedures, helping to prevent errors and accidents in daily operations. They contribute to a safer work environment by increasing awareness of potential hazards and promoting safe practices among employees and visitors.
For example, a properly labeled warehouse can help prevent severe accidents and injuries by helping to properly train and notify employees of equipment procedures, inventory placements, weight restrictions, forklift pathways, and other safety issues.
Safety signs and labels are often legally required. Workplace safety signs can be mandated by OSHA and other regulatory bodies to warn of hazardous conditions. When dealing with potentially dangerous chemicals, GHS labels (inlcuding those mandated by the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) may also be required. Choosing warehouse signs and labels that comply with regulatory standards not only protects employees from harm but also shields the warehouse business from potential legal liabilities and fines.
DLS offers a large selection of customizable warehouse labels, signs, and safety products.
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There is no one-size-fits-all solution for warehouse safety signs and labels. Choosing warehouse safety signs for your customer’s facility should involve a careful assessment of the unique applications and working environments of each warehouse.
Customizing safety signs to address specific hazards unique to your customer’s warehouse is crucial. They may need floor labels or tape to identify pathways for forklift traffic; signs to indicate areas prone to pallet collapses; labels to identify load limits for warehouse shelving; signs alerting employees and visitors to dangers such as high-voltage; or signage highlighting machinery with moving parts. Whatever your customers need, custom warehouse safety signs and labels like those provided by DLS enhance visibility and effectiveness in mitigating risks.
In addition to the message of warehouse safety labels, it’s important to consider the durability and visibility. Opt for high-contrast colors and bold fonts, or possibly retro-reflective materials to ensure maximum visibility, especially in dimly lit or busy areas of the warehouse. Additionally, select materials that withstand environmental factors such as moisture, heat, and UV exposure to maintain readability over time.
Warehouse safety signs are powerful tools in promoting a culture of safety and minimizing risks in warehouse operations. These valuable safety communication tools come in various types, each serving a specific purpose in preventing accidents and injuries:
These signs indicate adherence to specific regulations or standards set by authorities such as OSHA. They ensure that the warehouse meets legal requirements, promoting a culture of safety and compliance.
Danger warning signs highlight imminent hazards or risks that could result in serious injury or death. They alert employees and visitors to areas where caution is required, such as locations of toxic materials or high-risk machinery.
Similar to danger warning signs, hazard warning signs identify potential risks within the warehouse environment. These signs indicate hazards such as slippery floors, electrical dangers, or falling objects, allowing individuals to take necessary precautions.
Materials handling signs provide instructions and guidelines for safe handling and storage of materials within the warehouse. They help prevent accidents related to improper material handling, stacking, or storage practices.
Fire safety signs indicate the location of fire extinguishers, fire exits, and emergency assembly points. In the event of a fire or other emergency, these signs guide individuals to safety and facilitate swift evacuation procedures.
PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) signs remind employees to wear appropriate protective gear, such as helmets, gloves, safety glasses, or hearing protection, in designated areas or when performing specific tasks.
Warehouse traffic signs and labels designate pedestrian walkways, forklift lanes, and other traffic routes within the warehouse. By clearly marking pathways and vehicle routes, these signs help prevent collisions and ensure the smooth flow of traffic.
Strategically placed signs and labels can be used to remind employees of important safety practices such as proper lifting techniques or hand washing practices.
Signs and labels can inform and remind employees and visitors of company policies aimed at creating a safe and efficient warehouse workplace.
With DLSwarehouse, you can offer your customers a complete warehouse labeling solution. From warehouse rack labels and directional signs to safety signs and labels, we've got it all. And our warehouse label installation team makes it easy to implement a full warehouse labeling project. Contact our warehouse professionals for more information or to request a quote.
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