You can save your company a great deal of money just by running your warehouse smoothly and efficiently. As your warehouse grows, investing in ways that maximize efficiency will be key. Each year, companies lose money due to poor work habits and environments. If you want to avoid that fate, consider investing in these five common weak points of warehouse management.
Ergonomic Equipment
Ergonomic equipment is a small investment that goes a long way. Since it keeps workers happy and alert, it can reduce injuries and accidents. When you assess ergonomic investments, it is important to keep track of ROI and measure it carefully. Ergonomic mats and adjustable tables are examples of good ergonomic equipment.
Warehouse Management System (WMS)
A WMS can greatly increase efficiency. A WMS supports warehouse activities by keeping all data in one system. For example, these systems contain information like inventory levels and stock locations. This speeds up processing time by making items easier to find.
Organization
Proper structure is a must for any warehouse. For example, in Japan, they have a 5S organization structure that includes five points to get workers involved in the company’s bottom line:
- Sort
- Stabilize
- Standardize
- Sustain
- Shine
The 5S structure has seen great success within the food processing and manufacturing industries, and can be used in any warehouse.
Pallet Systems
Every warehouse needs storage systems. Pallet racking systems save floor space and organize materials in ways that make them easier to find. Additionally, proper storage can prevent accidents by keeping materials up and out of harm’s way.
Warehouse Safety Education
Last but not least, warehouse safety education is one of the most crucial investments you can make. While a safety course is required for each new employee, ongoing training greatly reduces the risk of injury. The OSHA issues fines for poor safety standards, so don’t wait for things to go wrong. Instead, take preventive measures. Training can include education on common hazards, new equipment precautions, safety checklists, and electrocution and fire prevention.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
REFERENCES
“How To Invest In Your Warehouse:” | Armadale Western Forklift Services. Westernforklifts.com.au. N. p., 2017. Web. 20 July 2017.
“Top 5 Ways To Invest In Your Warehouse“| Warehouse Management | Premier | Premier. Phsinverter.com. N. p., 2017. Web. 20 July 2017.