As E-Commerce Fuels the Warehousing Boom, Healthy and Safety Must Not Be an Afterthought, says Midland Pallet Trucks

Over the next few months, demand for warehousing space will continue to be almost 30% higher than past levels [1], which has been largely spurred on by the growth of e-commerce in previous years. As warehouses deal with this increased pressure and demand, Midland Pallet Trucks encourage all warehouse managers to make health and safety their first priority.

With brands such as Amazon, Ford, Aldi, and IKEA, amongst those investing millions in new warehouse facilities across the UK, investment into this space means more jobs and better, faster delivery of goods to customers. However, as the warehousing industry rushes to keep up with the demands of consumers, the pressure put on warehouse workers mounts.

Midland Pallet Trucks, a UK supplier of quality pallet trucks, lift tables, and aerial work platforms that are suitable for use in warehouses across the country, encourage all their customers to ensure the safety of their workers as much as possible. With the right equipment, along with adequate training, appropriate manual handling procedures and effective risk assessments, warehouses can maintain high levels of safety despite the roaring demand.

Phil Chesworth, Managing Director of Midland Pallet Trucks says, “We’re going through a time when demand for warehouse space is higher than ever, and we’re starting to see warehouses prioritise speedy delivery and optimal productivity at the expense of health and safety for the workers on the ground. At Midland Pallet Trucks, we think having the right equipment in the warehouse is one of the most important things, as well as training employees on how to use them effectively to avoid injuries and accidents.”

The demand for warehouse space is only going to continue to increase, and warehouses must be prepared for this spike. By updating their manual handling equipment, addressing defects, and providing staff with the correct training now they can cement a range of positive implications for the future.

With Midland Pallet Truck’s range of high-quality and durable equipment, warehouse managers can have peace of mind that their workers are using machinery that is fit-for-purpose. Together with the pallet truck providers’ Annual Inspection Programme which reminds managers to check their machinery and ensure that it’s operating smoothly, no warehouse worker should ever have to feel unsafe in their work again.