MMH - Layouts for Storing
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What should be remembered when setting up a storage area?
Back to top- Consider the flow of materials through the storage area.
- Store frequently accessed materials near one another to improve efficiency and workflow. See MMH - Materials Flow for more information.
- Make sure there is enough space between aisles and walkways for the equipment and personnel present. Store materials at a convenient height. Consider all people having to access the storage area and note that what may be a convenient height for one person may be too high or low for another.
- Leave the lowest or highest shelf unused, if necessary.
- Use vertically mobile shelves to avoid bending and overhead reaching.
![Vertically mobile shelves](https://www.ccohs.ca/images/oshanswers/MMH084.gif)
- Use bin racks for storing small items.
![Bin racks](https://www.ccohs.ca/images/oshanswers/MMH085.gif)
- Store heavy and frequently used materials at waist height.
![Store materials at waist height](https://www.ccohs.ca/images/oshanswers/mmh022.gif)
- Do not store materials at floor level.
![Do not store materials at floor level](https://www.ccohs.ca/images/oshanswers/mmh023.gif)
- Use hand trucks with elevating devices in storage and loading areas.
![Use hand trucks](https://www.ccohs.ca/images/oshanswers/MMH086.gif)
![Winch operated](https://www.ccohs.ca/images/oshanswers/MMH087.gif)
Winch operated.
![Coil handling](https://www.ccohs.ca/images/oshanswers/MMH088.gif)
Coil handling.
![Position work](https://www.ccohs.ca/images/oshanswers/MMH089.gif)
Position work.
- Use trucks with a tilting device to avoid bending.
![Box tilter](https://www.ccohs.ca/images/oshanswers/MMH090.gif)
Box tilter.
- Use elevating platforms to avoid overhead reaching.
![Use elevating platforms](https://www.ccohs.ca/images/oshanswers/MMH091.gif)
Elevating platform.
- Fact sheet last revised: 2023-07-31