Working Safely with Pallets - Basic Steps(3)

Use mechanized equipment where available. Use mechanization, such as a forklift or automated pallet dispenser, to handle pallets, where available.

Keep your friends close, and your pallet closer. When lifting a pallet, keep vertical and close to the torso to maintain a close center of balance.

Use personal protective equipment. Use personal protective equipment such as gloves and safety shoes when handling pallets, to avoid risk of puncture wounds, cuts or a pallet dropping on a foot.

Keep the work area free of pallet debris. When working with wood pallets, ensure that any broken pallet lumber is regularly swept up to avoid risk of sprained ankle or nail puncture wound.

Segregate damaged pallets. Set aside damaged or substandard pallets for repair or recycling.

Pallets are an indispensable component of many supply chains. Used with attention to safe handling, risks to workers can be largely controlled.