Warehouse cleaning can be an overwhelming task due to the size of modern-day warehouses. If not regularly maintained, warehouse operations can quickly become messy and unorganized, hamper the day-to-day workflow, and increase hazards and operating costs. A clean and organized warehouse can boost productivity, improve accuracy, and increase job satisfaction.
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According to Fredrick Herzberg’s two-factor theory, hygiene factors do not necessarily encourage employees to work harder but can lead to their dissatisfaction. Good hygiene factors, on the other hand, promote a positive environment among workers.
In this article, we will break down the cleaning process into five simple steps and share some cleaning tips and hacks.
Warehouse Cleaning Process
Warehouses that wish to maintain a clean and safe working environment will need to effectively clean larger areas from time to time. Let’s break down the warehouse cleaning process into five easy steps:
1. The Prep Work
Before getting ready to clean, you need to be well prepared. This would include removing any items from the floor or other surfaces that hinder the cleaning process. Also, warehouse equipment and vehicles, such as forklifts and trucks, should be removed from the area.
2. Preliminary Cleaning
Before starting in-depth cleaning, it is always a good idea to remove significant spots of dirt and debris. This will cut down the overall time required.
3. Addressing High Areas
Clean high surfaces first, as the debris will fall on the lower levels. This approach can prevent having to clean the floors twice. Some areas to clean would include the heating or cooling ducts, upper windows and frames, and the top of pallets and racks. You can use an extension pole with a duster head or an industrial-grade vacuum cleaner.
4. Floors
After taking care of all the high places, focus on the floor. The majority of warehouse injuries comprise slips, trips, and falls. Thus, it is essential to pay special attention to the floor, the areas underneath the racks, and other nooks and crannies. First, start by using a large mop to clear the debris and dust. Use a degreaser to clean the toughest stains, such as tire marks from the forklifts.
5. Reviewing the Checklist
A checklist can ensure that no spots were accidentally missed while cleaning. So, before the cleaning session is over, reviewing the checklist is recommended.
To download your daily, weekly, and monthly warehouse checklist, click here.
Tips to Keep Your Warehouse Clean
1. Have a Plan
When choosing a maintenance and cleaning routine, it’s essential to ensure that it does not hinder the productivity of your warehouse. Setting a consistent and well-planned schedule can help you balance resources and timing efficiently and execute the cleaning process smoothly.
2. Cleaning Supplies Should Always be Stocked
Not having cleaning supplies ready can discourage employees from cleaning the warehouse. Additionally, if they must walk a long distance or search for supplies, it will lead to a waste of their productive hours.
3. Clean as You Go
A conscious effort needs to be made by warehouse employees to clean up after themselves. This helps not only maintain the standard set by the company but also keep the area hazard-free.
4. Assign Areas for Employees to Clean
An efficient way to ensure that specific areas are kept clean is by assigning areas to specific staff members. This division into zones makes the task seem less intimidating. It also helps prevent a slowdown in productivity during shift changes, as incoming workers do not have to clean up the mess left behind by the previous group.
5. Turn Over Inventory Regularly
Stock that sits on the shelves for a long time can collect dust and cause problems for the entire warehouse. In addition to wasting valuable warehouse space, it is also costlier to deal with the stock and makes warehouse cleaning unnecessarily difficult.
6. Quick Reporting
There should be effective training for warehouse employees to report spills or hazards quickly.
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