ORDER PICKING
2
330-AXI-01-IMDO © 2020, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS)
1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | www.wsps.ca
While You Are Picking Low Product
Make sure that heavy product is raised off the floor to a good picking height (use racking or skids)
Put pallets on rotating turntables or use skids with wheels
To reduce reaching, move lower pallets as far forward in the floor slots as possible without blocking the aisle
Ensure there is space between pallets so that workers can step beside the pallet to minimize reaching to
the back, and to avoid stepping on the pallet
At All Times
Make sure that you are trained in how to lift properly (e.g., bend using the hips and avoid flexing the spine)
and that you have annual reviews of techniques
If possible, use mechanical devices to lift heavy items
To avoid reaching to the back of pallets, have a forklift turn pallets when half the product has been removed
Consider labeling heavy items or printing carton weight on the product label
Do not try to save time by picking too many items at once
Note: A workplace ergonomics committee can review the racking system, picking procedures, and employee
understanding of the system.
Hazard: Picking Product Using Powered Order-picking Lift Trucks
Details
Improper use of order pickers can result in falls, falling product, and collisions with people and racking.
Any part of an operator's body that is outside the platform may be hit by falling objects.
Threat
Serious and fatal injury from falls and falling product
Safe Work Guidelines
Before You Operate the Order Picker
Make sure that you are fully competent before you operate the picker unsupervised
Make sure that you have been trained to recognize the early signs of mechanical breakdown that must be
reported and that you check routinely for these signs
If you are likely to reverse your picker near people, make sure that the truck has warning lights and alarms
that pedestrians can hear
Review potential hazards in your work area
WSPS.CA
