Originally shared on Inbound Logistics.
The Challenge
Having safety programming is not a new phenomenon for most 3PLs who operate today. Perhaps you host OSHA sponsored and certified training courses, or support customer supplied training’s on the proper handling of their products. These are standard practice within our industry and all necessary to ensure your team stays safe. However, as the warehouse continues to evolve, there are other opportunities to educate your team on how to maintain a safe environment and strong safety record.
We’ve seen how critical it is to have a safety program in the warehouse with the recent COVID-19 pandemic. This pandemic has highlighted the importance of having good hygiene practices in place to better protect your team from illness. Not only are practices and procedures important, creating a culture that places an emphasis on safety and cleanliness is equally as important and has the ability to keep your team members healthy and safe when the unexpected happens.
The Solution
At MD Logistics, we understand that a safety program is not a ‘one size fits all’ solution. For us, we saw an opportunity to give our warehouse team a chance to collaborate their own ideas. Before you can begin to build a lasting plan, you have to build a program that has the strength and support to last!
Vision: It’s important to have an understanding of what you want your program to look like and how you can measure results. Taking the time to clearly communicate a complete vision will allow you to see real results; minimize accident reports and create an overall safer workplace.
Gain Support: Having the support from top level management shows the rest of the organization that its leaders support the changes.
Build a Team of ‘Champions’: Identify a team of individuals across all areas of the warehouse floor, who you can rely on to carry out the educational programming you develop. To get the best results, these members should be comprised of volunteers who have demonstrated initiative and are safety consciousness, further solidifying a commitment to building a safe work environment.
Gather Feedback: Ask for feedback from your committee of volunteers to understand where there are training gaps in regards to safety in the warehouse. Giving them a voice allows them to feel like their opinion matters and allows you to create a training program with valid concerns from your own warehouse.
