Toronto Warehouse Forklift Training Programs - Warehouses can either be industrial, commercial or retail facilities, functioning from bulk product retailing to product distribution services. Regardless of the type of warehouse, staff inside warehouse settings should be well trained in safety procedures related to material handling and storage, conveyor systems, loading docks, and forklifts and pallet jacks. Good housekeeping is vital to an orderly and safe warehouse setting.
Truck and loading dock systems are usually located at a height from the ground. Products enter and exit warehouses through these systems where employees unload and load materials from elevated docks and ramps. Particular attention should be paid to safety habits during this stage. To prevent falls, install yellow striping along the edge of ramps and docks. Pay attention to the area all-around delivery trucks which are parked at the loading dock, specifically the area between dock and the truck. Be sure that truck wheels are chocked while unloading.
Some warehouses use conveyor systems to distribute products inside the facility. Conveyor systems have moving wheels and belts that pose a pinch point danger. Keep body parts and hair well away from conveyors to prevent injury. Elevated conveyors pose a danger to personnel below if safety nets are absent. Staff need to know how to stop conveyors in case of emergency. Be aware of the location of off switches and emergency stop buttons. When servicing conveyors, tag out/lock out procedures are mandatory.
Forklifts and pallet jacks are designed to move materials all-around the warehouse. Forklift operators are required to take training and be given certification. Pallet jack operators do not require certification, but should be trained on the equipment. Training courses instruct operators in the right methods for hoisting things and transporting them to their assigned location. Neither forklifts nor pallet jacks should ever be used to lift or transport personnel.
Storage shelving and rack systems help to create an efficient and orderly work area if they are sturdy, braced, and allow sufficient room for people and machinery to pass. Slow and careful placement of good is required to prevent accidents caused by products falling off the facing aisle. Aisles should be kept clear by storing products flat and in the shelving units. Pallets are made use of for stacking products. They should be in good condition, and palleted products should be shrink-wrapped or baled, whenever possible.
Personal protective equipment (or also known as PPE) should be worn, as appropriate, to protect employees' limbs, heads, hands and feet. Hard hats or bump caps, gloves and steel-toed shoes are common PPE.
Slippery floors pocked with pits and dents present a hazard. Good housekeeping practices include keeping warehouse docks and floors clear of debris, oil and dirt. The area must be kept clear of trash, boxes and baling materials.