Exploring the benefits of strong material handling products such as pallet converters is now more critical than ever as the business supply chain strives to improve its efficiency, transparency, and sustainability.
Supply chain management is clearly in the spotlight, with top concerns including lowering CO2 footprint, fulfilling new sustainability requirements, making the most of available space, boosting productivity and speed, and building a better-connected, more sophisticated production chain.
It is obvious that switching from wood-based or plastic intralogistics packaging to high-grade collapsible pallet is on the radar for businesses of all sizes, given that these are at the top of every global market’s wish list.
Pallet Mishandling is Extremely Dangerous
Pallet mishandling can result in more than just an accidental fracture. Pallets pose a serious risk to workers’ health and safety since they are cumbersome, heavy, and sturdy to move. In this post, we offer tips on how to handle pallets safely, what to watch out for at work, and other health and safety considerations.
Consider E-Deck if your pallets are cracked or damaged. No matter which industry you belong to or what the purpose is, we can design, manufacture, and supply the ideal pallet for your company.
Important Things to Consider for Safe Handling of Pallets
Don’t make the mistake of using pallets as a man lift
Use only authorized, properly designed lift platforms for this purpose after completing and approving the required training. You should never utilize a pallet as a manlift. Pallets may be made to handle 800 pounds or more, but this is only for evenly distributed weights, not for highly localized weights like a worker’s feet.
Never leave a pallet empty while standing up
Standing empty pallets are risky and unstable if they fall and hit a foot or leg.
When handling, wear personal safety gear
To avoid injury in the event that a pallet is dumped on a foot while being handled, it is recommended that you wear safety shoes and gloves. If pallets are being dropped, it could be wise to wear hearing protection. To prevent ear-damaging noise, certain facilities require a smooth landing when laying pallets on the ground.
Never use a pallet that is broken or undervalued
Pallets must be eliminated from the worksite if they are broken, unsuited for the job, or even if you are unsure. Pallets that are damaged or subpar should be set aside for repair or recycling. Defective pallets can pose a major risk if they are used, particularly if they are placed on high shelves with a heavy load.
Always remove pallet trash
Damaged pallet boards can be unstable for material handling equipment in addition to a slip and fall hazard. Wheels on material handling equipment may also be harmed by debris.
Step between pallets with caution
Workers may cross over or on pallets when they are stacked side by side in storage units to get to goods at the back of the pallet. If the worker falls backward when moving between pallets, it could lead to a knee or foot injury.
Limit the height of pallet stacks
Maintain a maximum stack height of not more than 4 feet while stacking or unstacking pallets by hand to make pallet handling simpler. At the point of use, have a forklift operator cut entire stacks in half.
Make sure the pallets move easily
It is a great thing to tip a wood pallet just a little bit while physically moving it off of a stack to ensure it will glide without getting caught on the pallet’s projecting nail. Better yet, request a fellow employee’s help with the lift.
The Bottom Line
Pallet handling is a common daily activity in many industries. A workplace that is safe to work in is usually the consequence of taking the essential precautionary measures for pallet usage. Make sure the correct methods are emphasized and practiced wherever pallets are frequently used, whether you’re a business owner or an employee there.
Our pallet converter and other products are expertly made to properly keep packaged or loose products. A forklift or a pallet trolley can be used to move the cages around a workspace with ease, allowing them to be used in any warehouse environment.
Whether you’re looking for a pallet converter or a collapsible pallet, or any other material handling equipment and solutions, E-Deck can help!