In the business world, wooden pallets are an essential tool for handling and transporting materials and products across various industries. However, if not handled properly, they can pose a significant safety risk to workers and potentially damage the goods.

Following a comprehensive list of guidelines can help ensure you are properly handling and storing your wooden pallets, ultimately keeping you, your employees/coworkers, and the pallets safe from harm and damage.

Inspect Pallets Regularly

To ensure safety and reliability, before using a wooden pallet, inspect it for any damage, such as broken boards or protruding nails, which can cause injury to workers or damage products.

It is also important to be aware that using pallets that are showing wear and tear signs should be repaired or replaced immediately to avoid any incidences where the pallets suddenly break and become unusable or, worse, cause injuries to the surrounding individuals.

Always Use the Appropriate Equipment

When moving or stacking pallets, using the appropriate equipment, such as pallet jacks or forklifts, is essential. Additionally, workers should be trained on using this equipment safely and efficiently to avoid accidents or pallet damage.

Employees who are still in need of being trained or certified to move pallets should refrain from performing such a task. Workers who are already certified and knowledgeable can stay up-to-date on safety practices with ongoing training and refresher courses.

Stack and Store Pallets Properly

When stacking pallets, ensure they are stacked evenly and securely to prevent them from falling over and causing damage to the products or injuries to workers. The height of the stack should be limited to prevent instability, and workers should be trained to stack pallets properly.

Pallets should also be stored in a safe location that is free from hazards, such as uneven floors or overhead obstructions. To prevent mold and mildew growth, which can compromise the stability and strength of the pallets, all wooden pallets should be stored in a dry and well-ventilated area.

Respect and Follow Required Regulations

For worker safety and compliance with the law, pallet safety regulations and standards, such as those set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), should be followed. By following these standards, accidents can be prevented, and liability risks can be reduced. In addition to these best practices, it is also essential to choose high-quality pallets that are designed to meet the specific needs of your business.

McNeilly—Providing New York with Sustainable Pallets

Where you source your pallets is equally important as our other guidelines. Purchasing from a reputable company will help you feel secure that your pallets will hold up even after many uses and will ensure the safety of both the users and the products carried.

Pallets from McNeilly are designed to meet the needs of a wide range of industries. Our pallets are crafted from high-quality materials and designed to be durable, stable, and safe for use in material handling and storage. As a bonus, McNeilly pallets are made from sturdy recycled materials, making them good for the environment and for your business bank account.