The success in warehouse operations is dependent on making human, technological and also technical/physical changes in the warehouse. Likewise, successful reconfiguration relies on stakeholder buy-in and resource allocation to realize warehouse efficiency.
Proposed Warehouse Plan
Automating Warehouse Processes: The shift from a manual system to the automation of operations is vital in the increasing of warehouse effectiveness. Through the implementation of a warehouse management system (WMS), there is the efficient process automation, essential in saving time, tracking loads and making correct schedules (Koumpourelou, n.d). The WMS software is critical for managing inventories and controlling picking and dispatch processes. Likewise, better productivity and efficiency is attained by maximization of Warehouse Vertical Spaces, helpful in the reduction of movement times, making it easier for staff operations.
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Storage System: Efficiency get attained by using the Conventional Back-to-Back system of storage (Koumpourelou, n.d). Also, shelving and rack preferences are critical in efficiently run the warehouse. Some options are drive-in racking, pallet racking, decked racking, and light-duty racking. Of the four options, decked racking system emerges as the reliable for efficiency and better productivity. Decked Racking has benefits like allowing for easy dropping and easy loads removal. Also, it provides security with its self-locking shelves when used across various loading methods, i.e., forklift, manual, or stacking. Finally, the Decked Racking is efficient with ability to support over 8,000 kilograms/bay (Juma, 2013).
Rack Labelling: The efficiency in warehouse working is possible with the labeling of racks for the streamlining of workflows as they make inventory sections easily identifiable. Also, labeling helps in identification of accurate inventory to store, manage and shipping.
Warehouse Handling Equipment: First, Trolleys; for the efficient warehouse multipurpose use recommended for the handling of various awkward, bulky, as well as heavy loads. Secondly, Ladders; for efficient handling of loads among staff in the warehouse. Notably, industrial ladders are vital with multiple uses within the warehouse. A 10-step and 6-step ladder will be critical for handling varied needs for staff. Thirdly, Pallets; the efficient being Steel Pallets, advantageous due to extended durability, and can get repaired, as opposed to wooden which need more maintenance (Juma, 2013).
Lifting Equipment: The efficiency of the warehouse is also reliant on the utilization of technically efficient lifting equipment. There is a need for shifting from manual lifting equipment to electric. First, the warehouse needs an Electric Stacker; as a critical power propelled lifting device, stackers have masts and forks, vital in the lifting of loads and placing them on racks and shelves (Juma, 2013). The electric stacker is vital to minimize time loss by ensuring smooth and faster stacking of loads, which is also energy friendly to staff.
Installation of Heavy-duty Packaging Equipment: Wrapping and packing benches need to be heavy-duty, for enough ease of movement and operating spaces. This will increase staff efficiency and morale as they help support and keep backs healthier.
Other Operational Warehouse Measures for Efficiency
The employee efficiency is possible with Safe and Healthy workplaces, hence:
Quality Cleaning, calls for providing industrial vacuum cleaners, manual sweepers, dust-bins, cleaning mops, hand dryers, soap dispenser and high-pressure cleaners, vital for proper hygiene and staff health, contributing to efficiency (Juma, 2013).
Safety Measures/Tools: Efficient working needs the incorporation of safety floor signs, Fire extinguishers (Foam & water), safety signage, and protective gear for all staff.
Conclusion
The implementation of warehouse improvements is essential to increase operational effectiveness, resulting in a better supply chain management. Better productivity is dependent on the physical and human resource reconfigurations within the warehouse.
References
Koumpourelou, N. (n.d.). Ten steps for efficient Master Planning and Warehouse Layout Design. 1 st Bulgarian Congress: Warehouse-Distribution & Supply Management.
Juma, M. (2013). Proposed Warehouse Improvement Plan for the Government of Bangladesh, Directorate General of Family Planning (DGFP).
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