Whether you’re an employer or an employee, it always pays to be on top of the latest warehouse rules and regulations especially since warehouses are such high-risk environments. Here are the main legal requirements that should be fulfilled by warehouses in the UK:
Fire safety
Due to the immense size of most warehouses as well as the number of hazards, it makes it all the more important to keep up to date with fire safety training. Conduct regular fire drills so that everyone knows the procedure in case a fire really does break out. This also gives you the chance to check that all fire alarms are in working order. Ensure that all employees as well as visitors are aware of possible fire risks in the warehouse. A good idea is to appoint someone to be in charge of implementing preventative measures laid out in the Fire Safety Order.
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
It is a legal requirement that warehouse employees are kitted out with the appropriate attire so they can do their job properly. PPE can include:
- Hi vis jackets
- Hard hats
- Eye protection
- Safety shoes (i.e. with steel toe caps)
- Gloves
- Masks/respirators
- Hearing protection
As new risks come into play, different PPE may be needed so it’s best to keep on top of it.
Vehicle safety
Warehouse vehicles are indispensable in many warehouses to move stock from one place to another. Training should be given not only to those operating the vehicles, but also those that come into contact with them so that all can work in harmony. Ensure there’s a speed limit that’s no higher than 5mph and make sure to service the vehicles regularly to decrease any risks.
Slips and trips
There are several precautions that can be taken to ensure slips and trips are kept to a minimum. Make sure all cords are gathered up and taped down or placed in covers. Shelves need to be stacked properly so that nothing can fall off and aisles need to be kept clear to reduce tripping hazards.
Welfare facilities
When employees take a break, they need somewhere safe and comfortable to hang out such as a kitchen with food making facilities. It is also a legal requirement to provide toilets even if your warehouse doesn’t have employees and just welcomes visiting drivers. You could always go one step further and offer showering facilities for your employees especially if the work is physically demanding and they may need to cool down afterwards. GROHE offers complete small bathroom solutions to make things easier.
Lighting and temperature
When it comes to ensuring that the warehouse is well lit, a minimum lighting level of 100 Lux is required when the area is open. If the area is continuously manned, the minimum increases to 200 Lux. The requirements surrounding minimum temperature are quite vague. Legislation states a minimum of 16°C unless the work is physically demanding, then the minimum decreases to 13°C.
Handling goods
Picking up stock and moving it around can turn disastrous very quickly if the proper training isn’t given. Control measures should be put in place so that employees don’t hurt themselves such as straining a muscle or putting their back out. Make forklifts and trolleys available to lessen the amount of manual lifting and carrying involved.
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