E-commerce has boomed in the UK in recent years and is expected to grow by a rate of 7.8% between 2024 and 2029. This means that more warehouses are being built and more workers are needed to manage them. Working at height, heavy machinery and moving vehicles all pose health and safety risks, therefore it is important to prioritise and carry out regular warehouse risk assessments.
Regardless of the type or size of your warehouse, performing a risk assessment is essential to protect your employees. It is important to evaluate each situation, object or vehicle and plan to control them effectively. With hazards ranging from falling objects to fire risks, identifying the risks and developing an effective plan is a top priority for managers.
Warehouses must meet specific standards and correctly follow health and safety regulations. At Shoes For Crews, one of our pillars is safety, and in this article, we will look at the steps involved in conducting a warehouse risk assessment using this easy-to-follow checklist.
1. Storage and general safety
Start by examining the general safety conditions of your storage facilities. It is important to note if there are any obstacles on the warehouse floor that could cause slips, trips and falls. The most common obstructions to look for are:
- Storage bins, pallets and materials
- Large electrical equipment such as pressure cleaners, power tools, vacuums, portable pumps
- Trailing leads on fans and heavy machinery
- Loose mats and decking
- Uneven floors
- Entrances and exits blocked by debris or waste bins
- Unguarded edges on ramps and loading bays
By taking a thorough look at the big picture of your warehouse, you will not only discover and identify potential hazards, but you will also play a key role in preventing them.
2. Electrical and fire hazards
Warehouses contain a wide range of electrical and fire hazards. Ensure that the condition and location of each piece of equipment is safe and that no one is at risk of receiving an electric shock. As you inspect the hazards, ask yourself some of the following questions:
- Do you see any loose or broken sockets, switches, lights or conduits?
- Do any areas have worn, frayed or split wiring?
- Are there any overloaded extension leads or multi-socket adapters in any part of the warehouse?
- Is any portable electrical equipment due for a Portable Appliance Test (PAT)?
To reduce the risk of fire, ensure that flammable substances are stored properly and that used materials are disposed of immediately. Storing items such as solvents and adhesives in fireproof cabinets and cupboards will not only protect your staff, but also your merchandise.
3. Hazardous materials and substances
Warehouse risk assessments are the perfect time to update your knowledge of what is being stored and to review any potential complaints or concerns that may have arisen since the last evaluation. You will want to make sure that any products or substances that could cause harm by contact or inhalation are properly stored. Some of the most common hazardous substances are:
- Cleaning and degreasing agents
- Inks, paints, dyes and adhesives
- Smoke or exhaust fumes from vehicles or combustion
- Welding or soldering fumes
Evaluate any new substances that have been used since your last audit and take into account any concerns or complaints raised by employees. This is particularly important if any of your staff members have experienced persistent or increasing allergic reactions such as coughing, sneezing or itchy or watery eyes, to any new or existing substance in your warehouse.
