best warehouse safety practices
In a warehouse setting, there are constant moving parts, which means workers are responsible for carrying out a variety of tasks. From operating forklifts and machinery to loading and unloading shipments from trucks, their work days can pose a variety of safety risks. This is why proper protocol is critical. At NOTS Logistics, safety is at the forefront of all our services. To ensure our warehouse employees feel safe on the job, we implement strict policies and procedures.
Safety attire is critical while employees are on the job. At NOTS Logistics, we provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in each department of our facilities that it is required. PPE includes ear plugs for hearing protection, safety glasses, heat resistant and cut resistant gloves and face shields. In certain warehouse settings, team members should wear hard hats for protection. Closed toe shoes must be worn to protect employees’ feet from injury. These shoes not only provide protection, but also support for workers who are on their feet a majority of their work day. It is also important that workers wear clothing that is appropriate with the weather. For example, in the summer, they should wear lighter shirts and avoid dark colors. In the winter, they should wear extra layers, such as a jacket and gloves.
Safety equipment should be available and utilized. Forklifts should be used to lift heavy products. When an employee is operating a forklift, they must follow protocol. For example, when turning a corner, the driver should sound the horn to make fellow co-workers aware so they can clear the way. The emergency exits should be marked, and employees should know their locations. Sprinklers should be installed, as well as up to date fire extinguishers. At NOTS Logistics, we install defibrillator devices and first aid kits in all of our buildings.
Clear floors are essential to preventing slips and falls. The warehouse floor should be dry and free of cords and items that could cause a worker to trip and fall. The floor should be routinely cleaned and checked for cracks and/or pits. When a floor has been mopped, warn employees of the potentially wet floor with signage. Hazardous zones and/or materials should always be clearly marked. The best way to mark a hazardous zone in the warehouse is with signage and using tape to mark stripes on the floor of the area.
The most critical step in warehouse safety is proper training. Both day and night shift workers need to be educated on the best safety practices. For example, host a training seminar on proper lifting techniques. You could have all forklift operators take a refresher course on how to operate the equipment in the safest way. Host a CPR certification training course for all employees, not just management. Hang signs throughout the workplace reinforcing safety tips and guidelines. Ensure your management team is up to speed on how to best promote and enforce these practices, as they set the tone and serve as examples for their teammates. When an employee is failing to follow the rules, reprimand him or her. And when an employee is exemplifying best practices, reward him or her. You could also implement a safety reward program where your staff is rewarded when they go a certain amount of time with zero workplace injuries.
At NOTS Logistics, we believe safe co-workers are happy co-workers. We pride ourselves on our safe, clean and organized warehouses, and our employees appreciate being able to work in a safe environment. It is important that warehouse safety is never overlooked and that no corners are cut. Our management team is experienced in best safety practices and can bring them to your warehouse. Contact us today to learn more.
At NOTS Logistics, our coworkers are the driving force behind everything we do. Their dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence make it possible for us to deliver exceptional service to our customers and positively impact the communities we serve. That’s why taking time to recognize and celebrate our employees is an important part of our culture.
On Wednesday, June 19th, NOTS Logistics proudly hosted an Employee Appreciation BBQ Cookout at our Nashville, Illinois location. The event brought together coworkers from across our operations to enjoy great food, connect with one another, and celebrate the contributions that make our organization stronger every day.
Bringing Our Team Together
The cookout welcomed all full-time, part-time, PSA, TRSC, and NMS/North Operations employees, creating an opportunity for team members from various roles and departments to gather outside of their daily responsibilities. Events like this allow coworkers to build stronger relationships, share experiences, and foster the sense of connection that defines the NOTS Logistics culture.
Creating opportunities for employees to come together in a relaxed and enjoyable setting helps strengthen teamwork and encourages collaboration across the organization. Whether working in operations, administration, or support roles, each employee plays a vital part in our success, and this event was designed to celebrate that shared purpose.
A Classic Summer Celebration
The cookout featured classic summer favorites, including hamburgers, bratwurst, and a variety of delicious sides that everyone could enjoy. The casual atmosphere allowed employees to unwind, enjoy a meal together, and take a well-deserved break from their busy schedules.
While the food was certainly a highlight, the true focus of the event was appreciation — recognizing the effort, dedication, and positive energy our coworkers bring to the workplace every day. The cookout provided a space for laughter, conversation, and connection, reinforcing the strong relationships that help define our workplace culture.
Celebrating Our Culture of Appreciation
As a family-owned company, NOTS Logistics has always prioritized people first. We believe that a supportive work environment leads to greater engagement, stronger performance, and lasting success. Showing appreciation for our coworkers is not simply an annual activity — it is a core part of how we operate.
The Employee Appreciation BBQ reflects our ongoing commitment to:
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Recognizing employee contributions and celebrating achievements
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Building strong workplace relationships across teams and departments
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Fostering a positive and supportive culture where employees feel valued
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Encouraging connection and engagement among coworkers
By investing in our employees and recognizing their hard work, we continue to build an environment where individuals feel respected, supported, and motivated to succeed.
The Importance of Employee Recognition
Employee appreciation events play an important role in strengthening organizational culture. Taking time to acknowledge the dedication of our workforce helps reinforce the values that guide NOTS Logistics — teamwork, respect, and commitment to excellence.
When employees feel valued, they are more engaged in their work, more connected to their teams, and more motivated to contribute to organizational goals. Events like the BBQ cookout serve as a reminder that every role matters and every contribution helps move our company forward.
At NOTS Logistics, we understand that our success is directly tied to the people who make up our team. Their efforts, expertise, and positive attitudes allow us to continue growing, innovating, and delivering high-quality logistics solutions for our customers.
Gratitude for Our Nashville Team
We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who attended the Employee Appreciation BBQ Cookout and helped make the event such a success. Your continued dedication, professionalism, and commitment to excellence are what make NOTS Logistics a great place to work and a trusted partner for our customers.
We are incredibly proud of our Nashville team and all our coworkers across every location. Your hard work does not go unnoticed, and we are grateful for the role each of you plays in strengthening our organization and supporting our communities.
Looking Ahead
At NOTS Logistics, we remain committed to creating opportunities that celebrate our people, strengthen our culture, and support our teams. Events like the Employee Appreciation BBQ Cookout reflect our ongoing mission to invest in our coworkers and build an environment where everyone can thrive.
Thank you again to everyone who joined us for a day of great food, connection, and celebration. We appreciate you — today and every day.
Connect With Us
Main Office
17848 Mockingbird Road
Nashville, IL 62263
Email:
sales@notslogistics.com
Phone: (800) 642-5436
Fax: (618) 478-5356