Safe operations paramount in the modern warehouse

The use of new technology to maximise efficiency in the modern warehouse is becoming increasingly widespread but despite all the advances one fundamental principle remains constant – the need to ensure worker safety at all times. Latest generation lift trucks are fitted with cutting edge automation to make them the safest and most efficient trucks ever produced.

However, despite the innovation there is still no room for complacency when it comes to good safety protocols, as David Goss, Technical Director, UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA) explains.

With the need to manage rising order volumes, lift truck manufacturers have been quick to respond to demands from warehouse operators for safe and more efficient machines.

However, a truck is only ever as safe as the operator using it and the people working in the vicinity. Therefore, not only must operators be fully trained in the use of every truck they are likely to use and made aware of all its inherent safety features and what they do, but, there is also a need to educate co-workers, supervisors and managers of the risks and safety protocols.

The need for safety awareness is a theme the UKMHA revisits on an annual basis through its National Forklift Safety Day (NFSD) campaign. Although focused on one day in the calendar, the mantra at the heart of the campaign is to Make Every Day National Forklift Safety Day. This means all personnel in the warehouse have a responsibility to ensure that operations are safe at all times.

Previous NFSD campaigns have focused on issues including seat belt use, the segregation of workers from workplace vehicles, Thorough Examination (the material handling industry’s equivalent to a MOT test for forklifts) and the importance of Operator Training and Supervision. Material from previous years remains relevant and freely available for download from the National Forklift Safety Day website.

The 2025 campaign is slightly different to previous themes and will focus on the emotional impact a serious or even fatal accident can have on the people involved, be they family, friends or colleagues. The profound effects such a circumstance can have are truly life-changing and by targeting the human cost of such accidents, the intention is to get employers and employees to focus on safety at work.

The campaign draws on messages from previous years and looks at the importance of segregating workers and, under the slogan “A painted line on the floor isn’t enough”, will again highlight the need for all staff to be suitably trained for their responsibilities and roles.

Further advice is available by visiting www.nationalforkliftsafetyday.co.uk

National Forklift Safety Day 2025 takes place on Tuesday 10th June.The post Safe operations paramount in the modern warehouse first appeared on Warehouse & Logistics News.