Bulk bags are containers businesses use to transport and store various materials or products. A great example of this is an agricultural business using these bags to store crops. However, using, lifting, and transporting these bags are not as simple as they seem—there are actions a company must follow. Learn how to safely store and handle bulk bags in business to ensure employees use the best practices on the job site and avoid mistakes and accidents.
Perform a Visual Inspection
Before you use bulk bags to store items, you must do a visual inspection to ensure there are no damages to the material. If there are tears in the bags or loose ends, that could compromise the bags’ strength. Your business should not use a bag if it has problems. Instead, have workers report issues to management and find different bags to use.
Never Misuse a Bag
Not every type of bulk bag is the same. Therefore, some products are better in one bag than another. There are various specifications for the type of material you’re carrying in these containers. Keep in mind factors like what you’re storing to choose an appropriate bulk bag for the product you’re placing inside. Also, consider the material grade, weight limits, size, etc.
Use the Correct Lifting Apparatus
When moving a bulk bag from one area to another, you must use the correct lifting apparatus, or you could run into major problems. Additionally, you must carry out the proper procedures for lifting, or the container could tear, break, or become weak. Ensure workers use the correct methods for lifting to enhance safety on the job site.
Do Not Overload the Bags
It may be tempting to try to fit more of a product into a bulk bag, but this is never the best idea because it could break or tear, leaving you with an even bigger mess. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer. Never place more product into a bag that exceeds its weight limit, even if you only add a few more pounds.
Keep Bags Stable in Storage
If you’re handling bulk bags in business, you must also safely store them. When stacking containers on top of each other, ensure the bottom layer is stable before adding another bag on top. Furthermore, keep these bulk bags from toppling over the sides of pallets by creating enough space for them on pallets or shelves. Cover these bags in storage to avoid dirt and moisture contaminating the product inside.
While it may seem like bulk bags are easy to handle, there are several considerations you must make to do so safely. Always use the containers for their intended use, or you will encounter problems.