In our last blog post, we discussed the new injury risks and safety hazards that warehouse workers could face in 2020. The addition of advanced technology and artificial intelligence will change the environment of warehouses and many other workplaces across the nation as we move forward into the future.
As we mentioned in the last post, workers must speak with their employers about obtaining the proper training to avoid workplace accidents and injuries, but warehouse workers should also take measures to protect themselves on the job and reduce their personal risk of injury.
Know the top warehouse safety hazards
Recognizing the most common hazards found in warehouses is the first step to avoiding an injury. When workers know the hazards that pose the greatest risk to them, then they can be sure to take extra caution in situations where these hazards could arise.
Some of the most common risks in warehouses include:
- Trips and falls over materials or obstacles left on the ground;
- Falls from significant heights;
- Falling objects or equipment;
- Forklift accidents; and
- Ergonomic risks while lifting or packing.
Workers injured in any of these situations in the course of their work would be entitled to collect workers’ compensation while they recover (Maryland Code, Labor & Employment §9-501). However, there are also steps workers can take to reduce the chance of suffering an injury in the first place.
Tips to stay safe while working
There are several ways that warehouse workers can help minimize their risk of injury, including:
- Wearing the proper clothing and protection, including proper shoes, gloves and hardhats if necessary;
- Trying wearable technology to create a personalized safety plan;
- Being aware of their surroundings at all times. Look out for hazards on the floor, broken equipment or poor lighting; and
- Making their safety a priority every day on the job.
The focus on safety often falls to the wayside as workers get used to their job. The longer they work, the more their duties seem like second-nature. This often only increases the chance of an injury. That is why making safety a routine and a priority can make a huge difference for workers, especially as their workplaces are set to change so drastically in the future.