Safety is paramount in any workplace, but especially in warehouses and workshops, where staff deal with sharp tools and heavy equipment on a daily basis. Here are some good tips for creating a safe work space.

Store your tools safely

Leaving tools lying around your workshop is a sure-fire way to get someone injured. Make sure you have the appropriate tool storage  facilities for your tool inventory.

Wall panels are a good method of keeping your tool collection in order, but don’t place them too high up where you’ll struggle to reach them – you could develop a back injury over time, and there’s the potential for heavy/sharp tools falling onto you!

Larger workshops often opt for mobile storage, which allows them to transport tools and equipment safely around the work space. If you go down this route make sure you pick lockable wheels and drawers, and avoid placing them on uneven or elevated surfaces.

Use cable protectors

Pay close attention to dangerous areas and features of your work space. In a workshop area there are lots of power chords laying around. Electrical cables lying across the floor can trip people up or become damaged by heavy equipment.   Loose chords and cables can pose a tripping hazard. A way to prevent trip and falls is by keeping chords and cables tied up. Invest in cable drive over protector which provide a safe surface to step on. Cable protectors allow you to keep all of the chords bundled up in one place, where they don’t get in the way of your foot.

Installing non slip treads

Working in a workshop can create lots of slippery situations with wood dust or metal dust from drilling and other work.  Installing non skid treads are a great way to ensure that you or anyone else does not slip or fall on the powder that accumulates.Treads install quickly, are inexpensive and last a long time.

Guard rails protect equipment and people

Guard rails provide safety for both people and equipment. Take care of any supporting columns, beams or posts, especially if you have vehicles moving around inside your work space. A vehicle could easily hit an expensive piece of equipment or endanger workers by entering an area where they don’t below. Ensure their safety by installing these rails and other types of protective gear.

Colliding with a supporting column will likely weaken the structural integrity of the building and could bring the ceiling down on top of you. There are a variety of warehouse column protectors available on the market – again, research what your particular work space needs before you buy.

Thanks to our guest blogger for the helpful tips on safety in the workshop.

Call Handi-Ramp in Libertyville, IL for expert advice on home safety products at (800) 876-RAMP.