Stacking is done in many big companies because employers buy items in bulk. Different items are stacked in different ways hence, it is important to assess the risks associated with improper stacking before this activity takes place.
A lot of aspects should be kept in mind when stacking articles. The most important thing being, to assess if the base where a stack would be mounted is strong enough to sustain the weight exerted on it.
Before stacking, it is important to assess the surrounding areas to the chosen location to ensure that the stack does not affect its immediate surroundings or vice-versa.
It would help if pallets and containers are used to stack items. However, it is important that the quality of these items is assessed before they are used. The assessment would establish if the material used suitable for the weight of a stack it is supposed to carry and if it is in a good condition.
It is wise that when stacking, the weight of items is considered so as to ensure that heavy items are placed at the bottom of the tier. If lighter items are placed at the bottom, the heavy ones could crush, break or destroy them and the whole stack could become unstable and collapse.
Articles should be stacked according to size and structure in one tier. Articles of uneven size could put pressure on one side of the structure and it could collapse due to imbalance. When different sizes are stacked, it is advisable to stake them separately.
It is advisable to consider upfront the sequence in which items are needed. This would save time when they are required as they would be easily accessible and it would reduce labour on employees, in cases where they will have to dismantle the whole tier just to remove one item. Employers can establish a pattern of having different stacks for different periods of time and clearly label them so that employees would know which stack to use first.
Where possible, it is advisable to use equipment like forklifts to stack heavy items or when stacking at a height. Equipment like forklifts or ladders can reduce labour and improve safety during the stacking process.
When conducting a risk assessment, please include the need for protective gear. This could include helmets, safety goggles where liquids are involved and safety harness when stacking is done at a height.
Operators of machinery like forklifts require less or no personal-protective wear according to the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Nonetheless, employers should make it a point that the machinery itself has protective features like thick glass panels and a sound roof.
A risk assessment should assess the possibility of people adjacent to a stacking area getting injured, for example, they could be hit by a moving forklift.
Extra care is required when chemicals and hazardous substances are stacked. A special risk assessment is required to establish the risks associated with improper stacking of such items and substances.
Space is valuable. Proper stacking ensures space is managed properly.
Stack well and save lives.
Leave a comment