Keeping a warehouse productive, efficient and safe can be a challenge. However, warehouse owners are now using new technologies to increase warehouse safety.
In a warehouse, there are dangers from the spread of COVID-19, as well as accident and injury risks. Decisions around safety are often the responsibility of safety managers, who physically identify hazards and implement processes to reduce danger. During the coronavirus pandemic, with the requirement for social distancing measures, safety managers are spending less time on the workplace floor. There are also questions about the accuracy of the data upon which safety managers base decisions.
A warehouse equipment manufacturer supplies equipment that is safe to use, but safety can be increased through the Internet of Things (IoT). IoT sensors added to manual handling equipment, such as picking trolleys, measure proximity, speed and impact. This data is passed to safety mangers without them having to be physically present.
Artificial intelligence can take the data from IoT sensors and use it to recommend actionable steps to reduce safety risks to employees.
Back injuries are a common warehouse worker injury caused by lifting, bending and standing. Sensors embedded in clothes can measure potentially hazardous body movements. This information helps managers coach individuals on safer ways to lift and handle items.
There have been significant advances in warehouse safety technology, but accidents still happen. Statistics reveal that 19% of the most common workplace accidents are caused by handling, carrying and lifting. This is not the time to be complacent about warehouse safety.
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