4 Ways to Keep a Cool Warehouse in the Heat
Without a good air conditioning system, the average warehouse facility can reach temperatures around 80-85 degrees in the summer. At this temperature range, a person’s productivity levels will drop by about 18% according to NASA. The likelihood of making an error also rises to about 40%. Keeping your warehouse cool in the summer months will help your entire workforce be more productive – and distraction-free workers are less likely to be involved in an accident.
For those reasons and more, it’s necessary to keep a cool warehouse this summer. So what are some ways to keep your warehouse cool, even when it’s sweltering outside? Learn our top four tips on how to keep a warehouse cool in the summer below.
1. Do an HVAC System Check
Are you wondering how to keep your warehouse cool? Your first step should be checking your HVAC system completely. Do an HVAC system check. Even if your A/C system says 65 degrees, it doesn’t hurt to have the wires checked, filters cleaned and other routine maintenance done. A yearly check will also help with operating costs.
Your HVAC system is your first line of defense because it will help blow cool air into your entire facility. When it comes to learning how to cool a warehouse in summer, you won’t get far without an efficient and properly working HVAC system.
If you’re not sure how to complete a check, then don’t hesitate to call in the professionals to help.
2. Keep the Air Moving
Even the best HVAC systems won’t be too helpful if they can’t reach all the different areas of your warehouse. Airflow is crucial for a comfortable warehouse. Even if there are sections that are not air-conditioned, have a fan running. This helps regulate the temperature considerably. This is also the best way to cool down a covered, open-air warehouse.
Keep the air moving in your warehouse, and you’ll ensure that there aren’t any random hotspots in corners or deep areas of the facility. Another way to keep workers cool is to install mini-fans in forklift cockpits. These are very popular in Arizona, New Mexico and other southwest U.S. states.
3. Don’t Forget the H20!
Don’t forget the H2O! Hydration is crucial when it comes to cooling off in the hot summer heat. While you can keep your warehouse cool, your employees can still overheat if they aren’t staying hydrated. Make sure your forklift drivers have easy access to fresh, cold water. This alone can offset hot, sticky conditions. Without a proper water supply, things will heat up in a hurry! That’s why you should always make water available somewhere in your facility to help thirsty workers.
4. If You Can’t Beat ‘Em Join ‘Em
Of course, the methods above will only help so much. During sweltering extreme heat, which is becoming more common in many areas, it can be impossible to properly cool down a warehouse to a comfortable level.
Are you an someone who simply hates the heat? If so, then consider getting a job at a frozen food distribution center! These positions offer warehouses with typical temperatures ranging from -5 to -20 degrees!
How to Keep a Cool Warehouse Even in the Heat of Summer
A cool warehouse serves many purposes. It keeps your employees safe and comfortable, and it also protects your equipment and stock, too. Don’t run the risk of letting your warehouse temperatures soar out of control as the weather continues to get hotter. Use the tips above to keep your warehouse cool and safe.
Are you looking to ensure that your warehouse is not only comfortable temperature wise but also completely compliant when it comes to OSHA standards? Forkliftcertification.com is your go-to training source in any weather, any time of year. Whether you’re looking for first-time training or re-certification, our online modules can keep your company OSHA-compliant and avoid those big fines. Choose from our Forklift Training Kit, Train a Trainer class or our Bundle Training Package. And best of all, you can take our classes at your convenience – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year!
Contact us now to learn more about our current certification programs or call (888) 278-8896 to speak with our customer service department. We’ve assisted many popular firms like Snap-On Tools, Jenny Craig, Coca-Cola and Siemens with their OSHA forklift training programs. ForkliftCertification.com can work with your company to find the best possible fit.