If you are managing a warehouse, safety should definitely be a top priority. For example, a recent study highlights how warehouse theft has increased by over 40% during the past two years. Not to mention the risk of accidents that may harm your workforce or assets.
In this article, we are going to explore how technology can be a game-changer when it comes to boosting your warehouse’s safety. Let’s have a look at eight tech products that can bring warehouse security to the next level.
1. Employee badge access system
Allowing unrestricted access to your warehouse can greatly compromise its level of security. One of the primary ways to address this issue is by implementing an employee badge access control system. You should provide all employees with access cards or alternative digital credentials and establish a clear system for determining who has or doesn’t have access to the premises.
These systems are highly customizable, meaning you can grant or restrict access based on employee categories. For example, you may want to give full access to warehouse operators but limit the access of cleaners or maintenance staff.
Another advantage of these systems is that they allow managers to obtain a comprehensive log of employees’ activities, thus also enabling them to trace behaviors that may be suspicious or dangerous.
 2. Serial number tracking
Assigning a unique serial number to each item in your inventory and putting in place an effective system to track each serial number are fundamental when taking steps to boost safety. Doing so will not only assist you in managing overstocked items and preventing you from misplacing items but will make it much easier to enable easy identification in the event of a theft.
Make sure you have assessed your specific needs and preferred tracking methods when you are in the process of selecting a serial number tracking system. Aside from manual entry, here are the two most common options:
- RFID tracking: In this case, radio-frequency tags are used to track items in and out of the warehouse.
- Barcode tracking: This involves the use of barcode scanners that are used to keep track of items.
Evaluate available software solutions, plan the necessary hardware infrastructure, and implement the chosen system accordingly.
3. Automated guided vehicles (AGVs)
Safety in the warehouse also means preventing potential accidents that may result in workers being injured or in assets being damaged. One way to achieve this is using automated guided vehicles (AGVs) for transporting material within your warehouse as opposed to using manually operating vehicles. AGVs offer benefits such as improved inventory management, space optimization, and the elimination of human error and potential accidents. In order to select the right AGVs, it is crucial to understand your operational needs and choose the appropriate type, whether it be tow AGVs, forklift AGVs, or unit load AGVs. Additionally, evaluating the technology used in AGVs, such as vision-based systems, magnetic tape-guided systems, or laser-guided systems, is essential to align with your specific requirements. Don’t forget to assess the capacity, compatibility, and integration possibilities of the AGVs with your existing infrastructure.
4. Collision Detection Sensors
Collision detectors are another handy tech solution warehouse managers should consider installing. Their purpose is to detect potential collisions between personnel, obstructive objectives, and warehouse vehicles.
When potential danger is detected, an automatic response is generated. This helps prevent accidents. Specifically, a warning signal is sent from the sensor system to the vehicle operator. The sensor system can even automatically slow down or stop the vehicle.
In busy warehouse environments, these sensors can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, not just preserving the well-being of employees but also preventing damage to goods and infrastructure.
Equipping your warehouse vehicles with collision detection sensors can be a proactive step towards fostering a safer warehouse environment.
5. Wireless communication systems
Warehouse mishaps often stem from poor communication. In order to mitigate this, warehouse supervisors can introduce wireless communication technologies.
These systems can greatly increase employees’ capacity to spot and manage potential hazards efficiently.
For example, staff in the warehouse can use these systems to synchronize the operation of equipment like AGVs or forklifts across the site. Moreover, they can use these tools to issue alerts, express their plans, or seek help to avert any crashes.
When picking an appropriate system, it’s critical to opt for hands-free devices resilient to challenges such as dampness, shocks, vibrations, and dust.
To counteract the loud surroundings of a warehouse, it’s also vital to select communication systems equipped with noise reduction features. Additionally, the scope and coverage necessary based on the warehouse’s size should also be considered.
6. Safety management software
Using safety management software in your warehouse allows for in-depth analysis of safety incidents and ensures adherence to regulations.
It also enables the creation of robust safety enhancement plans. For example, the software can pinpoint patterns in accidents and their root causes, as well as ongoing safety concerns. Armed with this knowledge, you can put in place suitable actions to tackle these incidents.
The software also simplifies data access and reporting by bringing together all pertinent information, including incident reports, inspection records, and training logs. This consolidation improves both precision and productivity, leading to superior data handling.
Before adopting any safety management software, it’s vital to assess its features. Key elements to look out for include the management of inspections, incident reporting, training management, tracking compliance, and personalized reporting. It’s crucial that the software meets your warehouse’s specific safety objectives and offers an intuitive user interface.
7. Warehouse Surveillance
The introduction of CCTV surveillance in warehouses can greatly improve safety. These systems offer continuous observation, enabling the identification of potential safety threats and unauthorized activities instantly.
High-resolution cameras, tactically situated around the property, allow operators to scrutinize all operations and swiftly react to any safety concerns. Furthermore, archived video content proves extremely useful for incident inquiries, pinpointing root causes, and introducing preventive measures.
Additionally, the conspicuous placement of CCTV cameras acts as a prevention measure against potential wrongdoings, promoting compliance with safety guidelines among employees.
When selecting a CCTV system, don’t forget to consider aspects such as camera clarity, viewing range, and storage capabilities. By incorporating CCTV surveillance into your safety plan, you can create a safer and more secure warehouse setting.
8. Industrial IoT
The Industrial Internet of Things (IoT) introduces a transformative approach to improving safety in warehouses.
These networked devices collect, process, and distribute data instantaneously, enabling proactive maintenance, superior inventory control, and improved safety protocols. IoT sensors can scrutinize warehouse conditions, identifying potential safety threats such as changes in temperature, dangerous gas leaks, or equipment breakdowns.
These alerts can avert accidents, thereby guaranteeing the safety of workers and safeguarding assets. Furthermore, wearable IoT devices can monitor employees’ health status in real-time, alerting managers to any safety issues. They can also offer insights into employees’ movements, assisting in preventing possible collisions with moving equipment.
Beyond real-time observation, the gathered data can be utilized for safety inspections and for formulating more efficient safety guidelines. By harnessing the power of industrial IoT, warehouses can establish a safer, more productive workspace.
To Sum It Up
Utilizing technology can significantly improve safety and security within your warehouse.
Committing resources to the right solutions will reap a multitude of advantages, maximizing warehouse safety and protecting both your workforce and business functions. It’s critical to thoroughly assess the options at your disposal for well-informed decision-making.
