What Are the Physical Requirements for Working In A Warehouse?

Whether it is picking, packing, shipping, or transporting customer orders, warehouse workers have to constantly be in motion.

Some of the physical requirements for warehouse employees include:

  • Being able to lift up to X lbs (49 lbs or so)
  • Being able to stand or walk for up to 12 hours a day
  • Being able to frequently push, pull, squat, bend, and reach
  • Being able to climb and descend stairs safely

Many warehouse workers end up with pain or injuries in their backs, knees, shoulders, and feet. While not all accidents are avoidable, there are still some precautionary measures you can take in order to help prevent injury or at least minimize the damaging impact of the repetitive strains on your body.

How Do I Maintain My Fitness To Prevent Injuries?

If you are currently a warehouse employee or considering becoming one for any busy company, it is probably a good idea for you to maintain your fitness so that the constant zipping around, reaching overhead, bending at the waist, and lifting heavy packages doesn’t wear on your body and cause permanent damage.

Below are some tips to help keep warehouse workers avoid injury and help minimize any aches and pains.

Tips for Keeping Warehouse Workers Safe

  1. Get Comfortable Shoes
    Get some comfortable walking shoes! Visit your local orthotic shop or running shoe store, explain your situation (job requirements) to them, and try out some specialized shoes designed to provide you with the most comfort and support without causing your feet any further damage.
  2. Stretch It Out
    Stretch before, during, and after work to improve circulation throughout your body and ease the tension in your joints and muscles.
  3. Strength Train
    Lift weights regularly and properly with good form. This will improve your posture, build up your strength so that the heaviest package you ever have to lift at work feels easy to you, and prevent muscle strains and sprains.
  4. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
    Stay hydrated and maintain healthy eating habits. Eating better quality foods will have a tremendous positive impact on your productivity, energy level, focus, muscle recovery, and even your quality of sleep.