The warehouse of a well known footwear company in Coventry was destroyed earlier this month, Sunday 3rd May by a huge fire. Over 80 fire fighters attended the scene and managed to control the fire from spreading to near by retail units, investigators are currently trying to establish the reason for the fire but as yet this has not been established.
The fire closed a number of local roads and none of the stock could be salvaged with temperatures reaching over 600 degrees celsius. Warehouse health and safety has always been an area of high priority for warehouse property owners, not just for potential fires and hazards but ensuring employees are safe at all times.
Tips for keeping your warehouse safe:
Obstructions: Such as goods, waste packaging, strapping loops and pallets, can all be potential hazards. Warehouse pathways and aisles should be free of obstructions at all times, especially at floor level to prevent trips or falls.
Vehicle access: Pedestrian and vehicular access should be separated in warehouses, where possible but we all know this is not always viable. The most effective solution if the above is not possible is to have designated pathways and traffic routes designed into your warehouse. Always consider minimising the need for reversing, avoiding sharp bends and blind corners and maintaining all surfaces properly.
Spillages: Any spillage should be cordoned off while spillages are cleared up, spilt liquids can can cause surfaces in aisles and walkways to become slippery and unsafe and can lead to injury.
Maintenance of warehouse equipment: Inspections of equipment should be carried out regularly by a properly qualified member of your business – always keep a copy of your Workplace Health & Safety Welfare Regulations’ and ‘Provision and use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998’ in an easily accessible area for staff.
Warehouse equipment: All employees operating any machinery or equipment should be trained properly and by fully qualified individuals.
Employee behaviour: All employees should behave responsibly within the work place, negligence or reckless behaviour could lead to unnecessary accidents or injury – all employees should be aware of the work place code of conduct.
Ensure all flammable liquids are properly stored away in the right areas with the correct hazardous/flammable labelling and ensure all electricity is switched off at the end of shifts.
Ensure all necessary areas and structures (mezzanine floors/offices) have the necessary fire protection.