An essential part of commercial or warehouse life is pallets. They are beneficial for helping workers to move things quickly and securely. Pallets are used practically everywhere, yet we often ignore the dangers of using them incorrectly.
Pallets are used in regular supply chain operations and may result in various accidents, including broken toes, sprained ankles, and puncture wounds. Worker injuries caused by careless activities can be costly for an organization. It is advised that those handling pallets use caution to prevent damage. Spec Wood pallet components can be the perfect choice if you want pallet wood.
Steps to handle wood pallets
Here are some important guidelines to make sure you handle pallets safely:
General safety tips
- Inspect the pallets’ condition before utilizing them, and store them properly with an appropriate load.
- Pallets that are cracked or damaged must be replaced.
- Make sure the stringer is in a proper state. Damaged stringers need to be repaired right away.
- Check pallets for nails or wood splinters regularly.
- Frequent cleaning of wood pallets is necessary if you ship food or other potentially bacterially contaminated goods.
- Cracked, brittle, or fractured pallets should be removed from the workspace so they are not used.
Pallet use and handling: Safety Tips
- When operating with or handling wood pallets, always use gloves. Although foot and hand injuries happen frequently, they can be avoided using protective shoes and gloves.
- Pallets should be removed carefully; do not throw them aside.
- Pallets of wood should not be stepped upon.
- Look for loose or protruding nails. Tetanus, which can be fatal, can occur from an injury caused by a rusty nail.
- Maintain correct posture when carrying pallets and split heavier loads between two people to avoid strains and pulls.
Cleaning tips
- To avoid accidents, pick up and dispose of broken pallet pieces immediately.
- Ensure that pallets do not block entrances, emergency exits, fire extinguishers, or other emergency equipment from being accessible.
Forklifting tips
- Lower the unit load gradually.
To save time, lift truck drivers often drop cargo quickly. But be careful to slow down before you make contact with the ground.
- Before shifting, make sure the load is stable.
Before lifting, make sure that the weight is centered and stable. Avoid forking rapidly or putting the fork tines just slightly into the pallet. This approach may lead to a load incorrectly centered and deck board separation.
- Drive cautiously and at a modest speed.
After your load is centered, you are ready to move. When turning or operating on uneven terrain, in particular, remember that your forklift will get less stable depending on the weight you are carrying.