Warehouse infrastructure requirements used to involve space and access only. If workers could access the places to pick or shelve safely, it was considered adequate.
As consumer demands have created the need for faster responses, the human element in warehousing is falling out of favour. Even on a small scale, operations with automation tend to fill orders faster while keeping costs lower.
What Infrastructure Is Important for a Warehouse?
Warehouse infrastructure is the support system for all operations. It is like the foundation for a house or the skeleton of a person’s body. Without this firm foundation, any other investments would crumble.
Before warehouse infrastructure investments occur, a proper mindset and thoughtful planning must be the fuel that guides this process. If workers come from a legacy environment and must adapt to automated processes, there must be a time allotment for updating their training.
Once the safety policies and procedures are developed and the mindset is guaranteed, it is time to move on to these infrastructure planning details.
1. Lighting Infrastructure Needs
Warehouse lighting varies in quality and quantity based on the shape and size of the building. This asset requires close examination for those embracing automation. The equipment needs to “see” the physical structure of its surrounding, especially when equipped with optical sensors. Poor lighting leads to personnel injuries and blindsided technology. Even unexpected reflections can interfere with proper identification.
Adequate lighting starts at two lumens per square foot when heavy equipment is used. Some products refer to this light measurement as a “foot-candle.” Most buildings require significantly more illumination to prevent eye fatigue or equipment misreads.
Several areas require lighting, including the loading dock and storage areas. Fluorescent bulbs are popular for their low cost, while LED options provide long-term infrastructure benefits. You can also find high-pressure sodium and metal halides available for larger buildings.
2. Floor Condition Considerations
All warehouses must give thought and consideration to flooring. Workers require spaces that prevent slips and falls, while automated equipment needs a smooth surface that stays flat throughout the racks and aisles. Any unevenness must receive attention in advance for this infrastructure to remain supportive. Slippery covering or steep inclines could result in injuries or problems with acceleration or braking.
Most warehouse floors are made from polished concrete or epoxy. The latter is better for heavy traffic while having a lower lifetime maintenance cost.
The work isn’t over once the warehouse infrastructure has the needed floor. Proper maintenance is necessary and should be included in the initial costs so that this element is not overlooked. Here are the essentials to consider.
- Ongoing Cleanliness. Sweep up any dust and debris that reaches the floor as soon as possible. Daily cleaning is necessary, even if it doesn’t look dirty.
- Active Processes. Empower all workers to follow the current cleaning and maintenance protocols for the floor.
- Use the Right Gear. Most cleaning solutions are not ideal for skin contact, so maintenance crews should have PPE available. Appropriate ingredients that won’t interact in the warehouse environment should be part of this conversation.
3. Software Investments
The appropriate software for today’s warehouse infrastructure delivers intelligent material flow solutions. It provides transparency and information for automated facilities while supporting onsite workers with data that helps them become more efficient. This resource models core processes to ensure their accuracy, creating a seamlessly managed solution that works to decrease overhead expenses.
4. WLAN Interface
Warehouses that hope to incorporate automation into their infrastructure must invest in a stable broadband WLAN interface. With reliable Wi-Fi, the equipment can do its job correctly. Most vehicles operating in this environment communicate with one another on an Internet of Things (IoT) network, so they need a central hub that facilitates this work.
To handle equipment communications, separate and dedicated networks are often required in modern warehouses with automation. Smaller facilities might not need multiple WLAN interfaces, but it never hurts to consider what a future expansion might need.
Local Area Networks require mobile devices to maximise their effectiveness. Everything from handheld scanners to smartphones ensures that barcode scanning and checking stock are handled efficiently.
5. Warehouse Infrastructure Space Type Requirements
Space types can vary significantly based on the warehouse program being designed, but the infrastructure requirements typically fall into these five categories.
- Computer Centers.
- Light Industrial Areas.
- Loading Docks.
- Office Space.
- Storage Rooms.
Modern warehouses often feature higher bays that accommodate handling equipment and distribution networks. There must be enough flexibility incorporated into these requirements to accommodate future scalability or storage and potential mission or vision updates.
The initial configuration contributes to the success of these infrastructure requirements. Even a reinforced roof design with extra structural capacity could help with additional equipment needs. When combined with the other investments, it’ll be easier to store or ship orders efficiently.
Curious to find out how Arch International Logistics can assist with your warehousing needs? Click here to contact us today.
