e7.0 WAREHOUSE OPERATIONS

7.0 WAREHOUSE OPERATIONS
To capitalize on warehouse operations, a number of best practices can be adopted to improve productivity and overall customer satisfaction. Although best practices vary from industry to industry and by the products shipped there are a number of best practices that can be applied to most companies. Best practices here are concerned with: • • • • • • • • • Housekeeping Customization Deterioration Special storage facilities Stock location Loss prevention Space optimization Stock reduction Warehouse efficiency

7.1 HOUSEKEEPING
When we think of “housekeeping” we tend to think of the common phrase: “A place for everything and everything in its place.” But housekeeping means more than this. Indeed, good housekeeping practices – itemized below, eliminate clutter which is a common cause of accidents, such as slips, trips, and falls, and fires and explosions, reduce the chances of harmful materials entering the body (e.g., dusts, vapors), and improve productivity (the right tools and materials for the job will be easy to find). An orderly workplace will impress all who enter it – employees, visitors, customers, etc., help the company to keep it’s inventory to a minimum (easier to keep an accurate count of inventories), help the company to make the best use of its space, and make the workplace neat, comfortable and pleasant – not a dangerous eyesore. More importantly, good housekeeping improves the company’s image - it reflects a well-run business, which projects product integrity. Cleaning, dusting and mopping Keep work areas, floors and lighting sources clean, dry and in good condition. Keep aisles, exits, entrances, sprinklers, fire alarms and fire extinguishers clean and clear. Vacuum or wet sweep dusty areas frequently. Clean up spills and leaks of any type quickly and properly. Store all cleaning materials, tools