Warehousing Putaway

The purpose of the Putaway Standard Operating Procedure is to clearly outline the required steps to safely, accurately & efficiently Putaway processed inventory. This SOP serves as the foundational reference for all Putaway assigned associates at Nellis Auction.

Warehouse team this SOP covers all aspects of Putaway Activities at Nellis Auction, Exceptions, Safety, And Operational Excellence.

Warehouse Team Members, Area Managers, Operations Managers, and Certified Trainers.

Visual overview of the end-to-end process flow.

Key observable, auditable behaviors and outcomes that define excellence in this process.

The following standards are extracted from this SOP and represent the key observable, auditable behaviors and outcomes that define excellence in this process. These standards feed into the Nellis Auction master audit framework.

All deviations from this SOP will be addressed using a progressive accountability process to ensure compliance and continuous improvement.

Process Steps:

• Journal Acknowledgement
• Initial documentation of the issue.
• Team members acknowledge the expectation and correct process.
• Coaching 1
• First formal coaching conversation.
• Focus on reinforcing correct procedures and expectations.
• Coaching 2
• Second coaching session if behavior continues.
• Additional guidance and clarification provided.
• Corrective Action 1
• Formal corrective action issued.
• Documented performance concern with clear expectations for improvement.
• Corrective Action 2
• Escalated corrective action for repeated non-compliance.
• Corrective Action 3
• Final level of corrective action.
• May result in further disciplinary action up to and including termination.

Expectation: All team members are expected to follow SOP procedures at all times. Failure to comply will result in progression through the steps outlined above.

All deviations from this SOP will be addressed using a progressive accountability process.

This section outlines the safety requirements for Putaway operations, focusing on the safe execution of tasks related to inventory placement and movement. Key activities covered include strict adherence to proper lifting and movement techniques, mandatory use of mechanical aids for heavy or awkward loads, and strict compliance with all rack safety and capacity protocols. It details requirements for ensuring rack stability, proper item orientation, and the secure storage of sensitive items such as corrosives and fragile goods to maintain a secure and orderly storage environment.

Lifting & Physical Safety:

• Use proper lifting techniques by maintaining a wide base, hinging at the hips, and squatting down while keeping the load close to the body.
• Mandatory use of a Team Lift or Mechanical Aid (e.g., dolly/panel cart) for any heavy or awkward load.
• Prior to lifting, conduct a 5-Second Size-Up to test the load and ensure the path is clear of all trip hazards.
• During movement, avoid twisting the torso, instead, lead with the hips and keep the load within the Power Zone (mid-thigh to mid-chest).

Rack Safety:

• Ensure that rack load capacity, orientation, size, chemicals/liquid etc. are taken into consideration to ensure that these items are being stored appropriately.
• Never double stack items or overfill totes.
• Boxes must be placed with the smallest face pointing outward and inventory stickers clearly visible to the walk aisle.
• Store items in a manner that does not pose a falling hazard.
• Ensure boxes are fully placed on shelving, not half on/half off, or unstable in any way and do not protrude into the aisle.
• When storing corrosive products, ensure they are placed in designated cabinets or storage locations, on the lowest possible shelf to prevent splash hazards to eyes/hands in case of accidental tip-over or spill situations.
• Fragile, sharp, or pointy items must be stored on designated shelves to alert employees to the potential laceration or puncture risk during handling.

All safety incidents, near-misses, and hazardous conditions must be reported immediately to ensure a safe work environment and proper documentation.

What to Report:

• Work-related injuries and illnesses
• Near-misses (events that could have caused injury or damage)
• Unsafe conditions (equipment issues, hazards, weather-related risks)
• Vehicle-related incidents in the parking lot

Reporting Process:

• Notify a Manager Immediately
• Report the incident to the Area Manager or supervisor as soon as it occurs.
• Do not delay reporting, even for minor incidents.
• Ensure Safety First
• Stop work if necessary.
• Move to a safe location.
• Assist any injured individual if it is safe to do so.
• Seek Medical Attention (if needed)
• For injuries, request first aid or medical assistance by contacting the Nurse Hotline.
• Call emergency services (911) for serious situations.
• Document the Incident
• Complete The Safety Hub report form with accurate details.
• Include time, location, individuals involved, and a detailed description of what occurred.
• Manager Documentation & Escalation
• The Manager will log the incident according to company policy.
• Injuries/Illnesses: Management to complete Slack notification for awareness. If the incident results in a medical visit, complete the Injury and Illness Incident Report (IIIR).
• Escalate to upper management, EHS or HR, if required.
• Follow-Up
• Follow all corrective actions or safety recommendations provided.
• Utilize the Incident Investigation Form to conduct a thorough investigation if requested.

Expectation:Non-compliance with incident or hazard reporting protocols may lead to formal disciplinary measures. Timely notification is essential to mitigate operational risks and maintain a secure environment for all personnel.