Loading docks are busy places. In the U.S. alone, there were 11.46 billion tons of freight shipped by trucks in 2023, almost all of which came through loading docks. The constant interaction of humans with machinery like semi-trucks, forklifts, pallet jacks, and AGVs make loading docks one of the most dangerous areas of any facility.…
Read More >>I recently attended the spring Fastenal Customer Expo in Kissimmee, Florida, with more than 4,000 attendees. While I’m a veteran of other national distributor shows, this was my first time attending Fastenal’s event. The show exhibited an exciting vibe, including lots of buzz and energy, and was well-attended by both supplier partners and end-user customers.…
Read More >>By Joan Mantini Welcome to the July issue of Workplace Material Handling & Safety; this month, we focus on construction worker safety and distribution center solutions, primarily in the ever-so-essential packaging industry. Now that things are heating up, heat stress in the workplace is once again a hot topic. It is important to understand and…
Read More >>By Joan Mantini While the many people that have been deemed “essential workers” have not stopped working throughout the coronavirus pandemic, some employees have just begun anxiously returning to the workplace. And, others will be soon to follow with the conflict to reopen the country. Even though business owners and employees alike want to get…
Read More >>By Joan Mantini As I write this, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to escalate, and risks in the global supply chains are more apparent than ever. However, rather than await a return to business as usual, companies have been shifting gears and focusing o nproduction of essential healthcare supplies. Although there are countless companies rising to…
Read More >>By Joan Mantini I must say, after returning from MODEX in Atlanta, I felt like a bit of a rebel to have traveled under the health advisories and warnings of the media. But, before I proceeded in my travels, I kept a watchful eye on the situation—especially as exhibitor and attendee attendance began to decline.…
Read More >>By Joan Mantini Did you know that the hand is the most frequently symbolized part of the human body? According to Aristotle, the hand is the “tool of tools.” Generally speaking, hand symbolize strength, power and protection. Now, think of how often you use your hands in the workplace. Whether it’s data entry or operating…
Read More >>By Vida Novak, Air Technical Industries This is my “Happy New Year” exclamation for 2020. Years ago, I always thought of this year as being the “future”. Remember Back to the Future Day in 2015? That sure passed quickly. In my mind, however, 2020 was the year in which The Future commenced. And here we…
Read More >>By Joan Mantini 2020! Already? Where has the time gone? With the new year here, what time could be better to reflect on years past – and learn where improvements are needed. Let’s start January with looking back at the latest data from the Liberty Mutual Workplace Safety Index, which shows disabling workplace injuries cost…
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