The Rise of Workplace Injuries.
In the UK, 561,000 workers self report work related injuries.
Some workers face more risk than others due to the hazards in their workplace, including the warehouse worker. Effective communication systems are one way to minimise risk and maximise warehouse safety.
Warehouse hazards include issues with automated machinery, spillages, fires, and electrical issues. One of the main causes for these risks to escalate is the lack of efficient warehouse communication. Workers are often lone-working, and there can be delays in communication or alerts.
So, what is the answer to improving your warehouse safety and communication? You need to find the right communication system.
What Are Warehouse Communication Systems?
UK warehouses continue to increase in size over all sectors. This means traditional methods of communication are not always practical. You need solutions that extend beyond efficient signage at your workplace.
Warehouse communication systems refer to the solutions you have in place to oversee operations. Overseeing operations means you have a reliable connection to workers.
There are various communication system options available. Solutions include:
Two-Way Radios with Man-down and Lone Worker Emergency Buttons
Fire Alarms, Fire Marshall Alerts, Hard of Hearing Fire Alerts
Wireless First-Aider Call Points
These solutions can transform your warehouse’s safety and productivity in many ways.
Warehouse Communication Systems Benefits
Warehouse communication systems are an investment, so why should you implement them? The many benefits of communication systems are priceless. Here are some of the top benefits.
Avoid Legal Issues and Stay Compliant
Safety issues and injuries at work can often lead to employee negligence claims and compliance issues. If you do not have specific procedures in place, such as effective communication systems, you risk costly legal issues. An employee or organisation can file a claim, risking your reputation and business.
You are also required to meet the rules and regulations of your sector, along with Acts such as the Equality Act 2010. Find a communication system for all employees. For example, our DeafCall is for those who are deaf and hard of hearing. So, you will stay safe in all workplace areas by finding communication solutions.
Coverage
It is essential to pick a solution with coverage for your entire space. Otherwise, you risk losing communication with workers in parts of your factory, which comes with huge risks.
Usually, communication systems will note their coverage. For example, our two-way radios offer secure and instant communication for all workers. The HP685 two-way radio has an extended range, which is perfect for engineers and other warehouse workers.
Reduction in Workplace Accidents
Warehouse hazards are complex and varied. The good news is communication systems can help prevent and address issues fast. For example, you can receive alerts for automated machinery and production lines.
Instant alerts help you prevent potential hazards from escalating, which could cause accidents. For example, call alert systems alerts for first aiders to attend a scene.
Some communication system options also provide different alert styles. For example, workers can receive a vibration alert instead of a loud alarm.
You can also contact specific teams instead of the entire workforce. These communication settings can reduce distractions at work. Disturbing hazardous work could lead to injury, which makes vibration settings perfect.
Instant and Precise Communication
You cannot afford to delay communication, especially in large warehouse spaces. Communication systems allow you to take charge and contact the required team members as needed. You can choose the method of communication and receive instant alerts so no transmission is missed.
For example, you can use loud alerts to send instant and accurate information directly to the key responder. Avoid miscommunication by contacting the relevant parties while not disturbing other workers. Implementing effective systems allows you to be more precise and efficient with all lines of communication.
Safer Lone Working
Lone workers work without close or direct supervision, including many warehouse workers. These include stock checkers, forklift drivers, managers, and pickers. Protecting the welfare of these staff members is essential, as they face more risks.
The first step is to equip them with communication systems to improve their safety. These can include alarms and two-way radios.
You can also give them solutions that include a man-down feature and the option to edit audio for enhanced clarity. For example, the Hytera HP685 allows you to text and alert with man-down, and it reduces background noise. You can choose between loud audio or quiet to suit the lone worker’s tasks.
Satisfied Warehouse Workers
Communication systems boost employee morale, which is essential as 26% of UK employees are highly disengaged at work. They will feel more supported and safe at your workplace with systems in place. When employees are satisfied, they are more engaged in their tasks, helping to improve the workplace.
Save Time and Money
Investing in warehouse safety is priceless to protect yourself, your staff, your equipment, and your business. However, you also save money and time in many ways, including:
- Reducing injuries and time off work
- Improving machine efficiency
- Reduced errors
- Direct and instant communication
- Higher staff retention
Injuries can devastate employees and cause them to take time off work. Reducing risks helps reduce sick days and improve staff retention at your workplace too.
Plus, you will save money and time by staying on top of machine repairs. You will also save time by directly communicating with employees instead of having to spend time trying to access the right person at your warehouse.
Warehouse Communication System Options
Avoid costly issues with false alarms and evacuations due to fire alerts. Fire alarms in the warehouse are often spread out, so critical alerts are key. Ensure safety with our AlarmCall - Fire Alarm & Alerts Paging.
First-aider call points include our Wireless Emergency Smack Button, which will send an alert to the central receiver. It allows you to request immediate support from a first aider to attend a specific location in your warehouse.
Our Two-Way Radios also help keep communication standards high and safe with features such as man-down and lone working features.
Efficient workplace communication should be your priority. It is one of the main ways to maintain a safe environment for all employees. Communication systems help address the challenges specific sectors face, such as warehouses.
Call Systems Technology (CST) is here to help you find the best solution for your warehouse. We have paved the way for innovative communication and critical alert solutions for over 25 years. Get in touch to find a solution for your warehouse.