A Zebra Technologies report claims over 70% of warehouse workers across the globe have raised alarm over safety concerns in their workplaces. The report titled "Elevating Every Move: The Formula for High-Performance Warehousing" reveals a pressing need for intelligent automation to enhance safety and efficiency in increasingly busy environments.
The study highlights that a staggering 79% of APAC warehouse workers are worried about injuries on the job, with many expressing frustration over the amount of time spent on tasks that could be automated. It also notes that 88% of associates in the region believe that without significant investment in technology, meeting business objectives will be impossible. This echoes similar sentiment globally, where 85% of workers share similar concerns.
As e-commerce continues to surge, the demand for warehousing space is projected to rise sharply, with an expected increase of 27% by 2030. However, this growth presents challenges. Warehouse leaders are struggling to maintain service levels, with 51% citing difficulties in filling orders and 47% in preparing them accurately. The pressure to deliver faster to customers has never been higher, yet the workforce is feeling the strain, with many reporting fatigue and a lack of qualified staff.
Technologies in the horizon
Warehouse leaders are aware of these challenges. According to the study, 63% plan to implement artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) technologies within five years. Despite this, there remains a gap between the urgency of worker needs and the pace of technological adoption. Workers are calling for collaborative robots, ergonomic devices, and task management tools to help alleviate their burdens and enhance safety.
Moreover, 93% of associates believe that increased access to automation and mobile technology could improve job satisfaction and retention rates. The focus on technology is not just about efficiency; it also plays a crucial role in worker morale, with 81% of leaders agreeing that automation boosts employee engagement.
As the APAC warehousing sector faces rapid growth, the need for leaders to adopt digital solutions is more critical than ever. The findings from Zebra Technologies serve as a clarion call for warehouse operators in the region to embrace automation and ensure safer, more productive working environments. Failure to act may not only jeopardise operational goals but also the well-being of the workforce.
