Layout
The general principle is to minimize the total kg-km of transportation of materials, within the constraints imposed by the other environmental conditions.
It is advantageous to have the warehouse to the nearest point of usage.
Ensure adequate precautions for security against fire, leak, damage, pilferage and safety.
Handling losses at be bare minimal.
The warehouse lay out must ensure the right material in the right place, and serving the user in the most effective manner through the shortest possible distance, in the least amount of time.
Security and safety
Since stores is money (in the form of stocks), the in-charge is the custodian of the stores, he is responsible for its security. Security in all senses - fire, leak, damage, pilferage, deteriorating in storage, shelf life, handling losses, Short and excess receipt or issue, theft, etc.
The security force or the watch and ward staff keep vigil throughout the day and night, not only in stores but the entire premises of the organization.
All warehouses are to have proper locking arrangements and periodic checks to be carry.
Unauthorized entry and exit must avoid.
Safety devices like burglar alarms, smoke detectors, and fire fighting equipment to be installed. Safe working loads to be displayed. Use of protective clothing, hand gloves, helmets and gumboots and safety rules to observe by all.
Excessive fatigue should be avoided.
Provide adequate lighting, ventilation and moving space.
Prevent Electrical short circuit by way of periodical checks on wiring and fittings.
Provide proper emergency exit wherever necessary.
Train in first aid.
Use equipments like forklifts, overhead cranes etc with caution and by trained personnel only.
Handling procedures, in case of accident what to do signals are displayed on most of the original labels of the manufacturers. Manufacturing and expiry dates, batch details are mentioned by almost all manufactures wherever necessary.
Where to use and not to use hooks display and how many to stock vertically are displayed by the manufacturer.
Keep the original labels and signals intact. Follow these instruction of label for your own safety. Avoid costly damages to men, material.
No smoking is a strict norm to be followed.