Improve productivity and safety with a better workplace

Worker productivity improves as comfort and safety improve. As we get into the busy spring season, it is important to review the working conditions that employees encounter every day. Are there things that can be changed that will reduce stress, make lifting and carrying easier, improve comfort, or reduce exposure to safety hazards? The following should be considered:
 

Temperature

Depending on the type of task to be done, the ideal working temperature is usually in the range of 60-68 degrees Fahrenheit. Unit heaters or a separate zone from a boiler can provide the heat needed during the cooler seasons of the year; direct air circulation so that it doesn’t create drafts; and spot heating — such as in a transplanting area — can be done with gas or electric infrared heaters or electric floor mats.

Providing cool air through exhaust fans, portable evaporative coolers or air conditioning can reduce the temperature in the work area. Install air-circulation fans to move air around workers on the warmest days. In greenhouses, installing shade above the work area will reduce the temperature.
 

Lighting

Interior work areas are usually too dark. Lighting should be at a level to minimize eye strain, and give true color representation. Recommended levels at the work surface should be about 20-foot candles for shipping and storage areas and 50- to 70-foot candles for media preparation and transplanting areas.

Cool, white fluorescent or metal halide, high-intensity discharge-type lights are best because they are efficient and give color near that of sunlight. Portable lights can be used in hard-to-reach areas or over work stations. Avoid glare by locating fixtures out of the field of view. Light-colored wall and ceiling surfaces will reduce contrast and shadows.

Floors

A concrete floor in the work area and concrete aisles in the growing areas allow for good footing and easy movement of materials. Non-slip surface coatings should be applied to areas subject to water spills. Anti-fatigue mats of vinyl or rubber should be used around work stations, and adequate floor drains should be installed to remove water.
 

Safety

Keeping work and walk areas free of hazards is important. Packing boxes, electric cords, machinery and other obstructions pose a potential hazard to employees as they move around. They also slow output.

Dust from soil and mixes can also present a hazard. Keeping the mix moist and using an exhaust system to remove dust can help to reduce this problem. Provide dust masks for those working with dry mix.

Exposure to noisy environment all day reduces productivity. When selecting mixing, container filling and powered materials handling equipment, check the noise level. For some types of equipment, hearing protection may have to be provided to meet OSHA standards.

Portable electric equipment should be connected to ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI). Machinery guards and safety shields should be kept in place.

Pesticides should not be stored in the headhouse or work areas. Locate the storage cabinet or shed away from the work area. It should have heat, ventilation and spill containment.

Workers who are required to do outside tasks in inclement weather should be provided with all-weather gear, such as rain suits, footwear, protective eyewear and gloves. These should be kept in a convenient location for easy access.
 

Employee rest area

A convenient rest area can make lunch and break times more relaxing and enjoyable. Providing lockers, tables and chairs, snack machines, a refrigerator and microwave oven will save workers having to make trips off the property to fulfill their needs.

Now that the busy spring season is upon us, anything that can be done to improve the comfort and safety of your workers will result in increased productivity. As you observe employee work methods and performance, note areas that can be improved. The small cost of these improvements can pay big dividends during this busy time and throughout the year.

Bartok is a regular contributor to Greenhouse Management and an agricultural engineer and emeritus extension professor at the University of Connecticut. He is an author, consultant and a certified technical service provider doing greenhouse energy audits for USDA grant programs in New England.

Have a question? You can write John at jbartok@rcn.com.