Six expert tips for safe material handling.
In manufacturing, efficient material handling is indispensable. But this vital aspect of your operations carries inherent risks. Vigilant attention to safe material handling is required to protect both employee well-being and operational efficiency, as well as productivity. To navigate these challenges effectively, I’ll take you through six of the most important parts.
Identify the risks
Risk identification is the cornerstone of any robust safety strategy. This involves meticulous assessment of potential hazards inherent in your material handling processes. From heavy lifting to repetitive motions and working at heights, each step presents unique risks that make thorough evaluation necessary. By identifying these risks proactively, you can implement targeted mitigation measures. Don’t forget to involve your workforce in this part — their feedback can be invaluable.
Address common issues 
For the wellbeing of your workforce, comprehensive health and safety training is essential. Employees must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to recognize hazards, adhere to safety protocols, and respond effectively to emergencies. Regular training also helps to promote a culture of safety within the workplace. Moreover, implementing scheduling policies that limit exposure to strenuous tasks and providing adequate rest breaks are vital in preventing fatigue, further minimizing the risk of injuries.
Create a safe environment
Signage serves as a crucial tool in communicating safety instructions and alerting employees to potential hazards. Clear and visible signage not only guides employees but also reinforces the culture of safety established through your training schedule. Additionally, maintaining a tidy environment is paramount. A clutter-free workspace minimizes tripping hazards and facilitates smooth material flow, thus reducing the risk of accidents. It can also make pathways more efficient.
Provide adequate PPE
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) plays a pivotal role in safeguarding employees against occupational hazards. Whether it’s gloves, safety goggles, helmets, or footwear with slip-resistant soles, ensuring that employees have access to the appropriate PPE is non-negotiable. Depending on what materials you’re providing, specialized equipment tailored to the specific needs of your material handling tasks is imperative. Again, feedback from employees can be very beneficial.
Maintain all equipment
Regular equipment maintenance is essential to ensure the safe and efficient operation of material handling machinery. Routine inspections should be conducted to identify and rectify any defects or malfunctions promptly, as well as cleaning out dust and debris from the mechanisms. Adherence to proper maintenance protocols not only enhances safety but also prolongs the lifespan of your equipment, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
Embrace new technology
It’s important to stay on top of and implement the latest advancements in technology, such as automated systems and software solutions. From automated conveyors to real-time monitoring systems, technology enables you to streamline operations while minimizing the risk of human error. Together with the time-saving qualities of heavy machinery, software provides unprecedented opportunities to enhance safety and efficiency.
Prioritizing safety in material handling is not just a legal obligation but may have productivity benefits too. By adopting a comprehensive approach that encompasses risk identification, addressing common issues, providing adequate PPE, maintaining equipment, and leveraging technology, you can create a safer work environment that encourages productivity and employee well-being. ■
Barry Crackett
Barry Crackett is a product designer at Brushtec. With over 200 years of experience and expertise in all aspects of brush design, Brushtec is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of brushes and brushware. The company specializes in the manufacture and design of innovative brushes for a wide range of industries, including for agriculture and farming, as well as customizable solutions.