Warehouses are a crucial part of the supply chain, helping goods get from their manufacturer to their final destination. Laying out a warehouse for optimal efficiency is a science unto itself with many factors that must be considered. Employee health and safety, proper workflow, and accommodations for automation are just a few of the factors accounted for.
Even with all the thought that goes into the layout of a modern warehouse, designers sometimes make mistakes that can impact the safety or efficiency of the space. Here are a few common errors to avoid when planning your warehouse’s design.
Improper fire suppression
Your insurance provider or local building codes probably have some considerations for fire suppression. Including this detail in your warehouse plans will probably not be your first priority, but it is a crucial step for safety compliance. Once installed, an inspection of your sprinkler system and fire extinguishers will likely be required before operations in your warehouse can begin. More strict measures may be in place depending on the kinds of goods you plan to store. Be sure your fire suppression is up to snuff from the start, or risk costly delays.
Insufficient egress
Getting goods in and out of the facility as efficiently as possible is important in any warehouse. It’s also crucial to remember that workers inside your facility will need a quick means of exit in case of an emergency. Failing to provide the required egress can come back to haunt you in the permitting phase of construction. Be sure to carefully check your plans against local codes to ensure the number of exits in your warehouse meets the minimum requirements in your area.
Poor ergonomics
Warehouses should be designed with the comfort and safety of workers in mind. Promoting good ergonomics for processes in your facility will reduce stress-related injuries in your workforce and boost employee satisfaction. Some simple steps like installing stress-relief mats at workstations, reducing the distance workers must walk while carrying heavy loads, and keeping shelfs at a comfortable height for ease of access will help to keep your team healthy and happy.
Improper automation
When properly employed, automation can greatly reduce stress while keeping your warehouse running up to speed. There’s also a thing as too much automation, which can make your warehouse cluttered and create potential safety hazards for human workers. What’s the key to understanding which parts of your operation could benefit from automation and which should stay as-is? Work with UMD’s experienced engineers to design and build custom automated solutions designed to meet your specific needs. Contact us today to learn more.