Facility Safety – Elevating Safety in Warehouse, Distribution Center and High Injury-Rate Retail Establishments: A Risk-Based Prioritized Approach
Greg Zigulis, CIH, CSP, CHSP, President, Sixth Sense Safety Solutions hosted a free webinar for Occupational Health & Safety Magazine on May 2, 2024.
In today’s fast-paced supply chain, the safety of warehouse and distribution center operations is paramount. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a significant rise in the number of people working in warehousing applications over the past several years. Unfortunately, injury rates have also surged, with more than five injuries per 100 full-time workers annually—well above industry averages. These injuries can result from common warehouse hazards such as slips, trips, falls, ergonomic strains, powered industrial vehicle accidents, material handling mishaps, and even heat stress. Recognizing this urgent need, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has initiated a National Emphasis Program (NEP) specifically targeting Warehousing and Distribution Center Operations. This program aims to enhance safety practices and protect workers from preventable accidents.
The webinar sheds light on the OSHA NEP and guides you toward a risk-driven, priorities-based approach for safeguarding warehouse and distribution center workers. It explores key safety risks, including those on OSHA’s radar, and discusses effective solutions. From hazard identification and risk analysis to safety training, materials handling, ergonomics, and traffic management, it covers strategies that create a safer work environment. By addressing these priorities, you’ll not only reduce the risk of accidents and injuries but also boost overall productivity and morale among your valuable warehouse team.
Watch the webinar at Occupational Health & Safety Magazine.