Safe Unpacking of Palletised Products

Know your pallet type

Once opened, all pallets must not be moved from their storage location while products remain on the pallet.

Before removing pallet wrap, strapping or the front panel

• The pallet must be in the final picking location before removing packaging.
• Visually inspect the pallet for signs of leaning, movement or instability.
• Stand in a safe zone, away from the potential path of falling cartons, before cutting pallet wrap or strapping or removing the front panel. Release restraints slowly and progressively while maintaining a safe position at all times.
• On three-sided pallets, take particular care at the open face, where products are not restrained by the frame.
• On four-sided pallets, remove all fixings safely and from a safe position, then ease the front panel away without standing in its path. Products may have settled against the panel in transit.

If the load moves or appears unstable

• Do not attempt to hold, support or restrain any cartons if they move or appear unstable.
• Never attempt to catch or support a falling product.
• Stop unpacking immediately, keep all personnel clear of the pallet, and escalate to your supervisor or site safety representative before any further wrap or strapping is cut, or panels are removed.