Warehouse Automation: Tackling Labour-Intensive Work and Workforce Shortages

Labour shortages and the physically demanding nature of warehouse tasks are dual challenges for the logistics industry. Despite these pressures, the supply chain must continue to operate seamlessly. Could warehouse automation offer a solution to alleviate drudgery without jeopardising jobs? This article explores innovative approaches to improving warehouse performance and working conditions through automation.

What is the impact of physically taxing warehouse work on employees’ health and operational efficiency? Here are some eye-opening statistics:

• The average warehouse operator walks 15 km per day, in addition to handling heavy loads and performing repetitive movements.
• Labour shortages affect 3 in 4 companies, with 76% of supply chain managers reporting a lack of workers. In France alone, over 88,000 logistics vacancies are projected in the 2^d quarter of 2024.
• Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) account for 95% of recognised occupational illnesses in the transport and logistics sector. These conditions are primarily caused by repetitive tasks and poor posture, highlighting a disconnect between warehouse environments and staff requirements.
• Les arrêts de travail liés à ces troubles représentent 860 000 jours de travail, et l’équivalent de 73 millions d’euros. Parmi ces arrêts, 66 % sont en lien avec le mal de dos.

These figures underscore the significant challenges facing the logistics industry amidst rapid growth. Can warehouse automation, offering safer and more efficient processes, rise to meet these demands?

Whether you are a 3PL provider, a retailer, or a manufacturer, logistics warehouse automation offers a pathway to reducing physical strain while enhancing operational efficiency. However, successful implementation hinges on proper integration and worker adoption.

Improving Workplace Ergonomics: A Shared Responsibility for Humans and Robots

Warehouse automation solutions, particularly those focused on employee well-being, can significantly reduce the physical demands placed on staff. For instance, Exotec’s systems are developed in collaboration with ergonomists, ensuring compliance with logistics warehouse safety standards.

Key examples include:

• AMR Robots (Autonomous Mobile Robots): these robots handle repetitive tasks such as transporting goods between storage zones and picking stations, drastically reducing the distances operators need to walk.

Ergonomically Designed Picking Stations: these stations are tailored to minimise repetitive movements and prevent postural issues, addressing the primary causes of musculoskeletal disorders. The result? Safer, less physically demanding work environments.

Exotec Advantage: personalised post-installation support ensures employees are trained in best practices, facilitating the smooth adoption of automated warehouse solutions.

The Automated Warehouse: A Secure AND High-Performance Solution

Warehouse security and productivity are bolstered by automation, which not only reduces error rates but also accelerates order fulfilment.

Consider these advantages:

• Flexibility: autonomous mobile robots can operate in controlled temperatures from 0°C to 32°C and retrieve goods stored up to 12 metres high. During seasonal peaks, Exotec offers robot rental options to maintain order flow while easing the burden on operators.
• Reliability: all stored goods are accessible within two minutes, around the clock, ensuring uninterrupted operations.
• Productivity: The Skypod system boosts productivity by up to five times, especially during high-demand periods.

To learn more about how logistics warehouse automation is transforming the sector and mitigating labour challenges, explore our in-depth analysis.