Labeling for Longevity

Can something as simple as a label enhance safety, material handling efficiency and cost control? You bet. Labels play vital roles in nearly all of areas of warehousing and distribution and are typically integral to the performance of a warehouse management system (WMS). Label printing can even make or break entire barcoding systems.

In warehouses and distribution centers (DCs), rack-mounted labels ensure correct identification and pulling of materials or product for handling. But, that's only one of many applications for labeling systems.

Labeling systems are rapidly evolving to become more useful, efficient and valuable to successful material handling applications. Today's label printers can help identify components inside and outside of equipment housings, storage units and electrical panels. A single printer can create wire and cable markers, serialized labels, specific compliance labels and more.

Portable label printers do more than print labels these days. They are versatile, multi-functional tools. One portable model has a built-in flashlight and backlighted display screen to allow label creation in low-light areas or in the dark.

In addition, software compatibility, industry-specific capabilities and label-printing automation have improved in recent years. Integration with enterprise resource planning (ERP) software and WMS is more widespread, allowing labeling systems to play an integral role in reducing errors and improving productivity.

Interestingly, printer manufacturers are looking beyond traditional identification as the primary application of labeling systems. The latest innovations stress ergonomics and safety, facility and equipment maintenance, lean operations and product quality.

Ergonomics and Safety

Labels can add much-needed organization to a workplace, and an organized workplace is safer. Large, easy-to-read labels clearly identify aisles, racks, shelves, bins, automated guided vehicle (AGV) and conveyor zones and other functional areas, for instance.

New portable label printers are designed for one-handed operation. Label retention features keep labels from falling on the floor after they've been cut. Some printers also have accessories, such as wrist straps or magnet attachments, that let workers attach the printer to panels, I-beams and other magnetic-receptive surfaces during use or storage.

And, labels do more than just identify material and danger zones; they also communicate key information. In facilities where large, fast-moving equipment is constantly moving heavy pallets, cartons and containers, labels that clearly display emergency-stop instructions can help employees take appropriate action quickly in critical situations. The same principle applies to equipment lockout procedures, first-aid supplies and exit routes. Showing employees the exact steps to take at the point of need reduces errors, injuries and liability.

Whether used to identify flammable materials or signal the need for personal safety gear in designated areas, labels also enhance compliance and specification requirements.

Today's advanced label printers can produce high-quality, large labels, allowing workers to see signage from a distance. In addition, labels currently on the market last longer and stand up to industrial environments better than they have in the past. A print resolution of 203 dots per inch (dpi) or higher helps ensure durability and readability.

Manage and Maintain

Visual management of equipment at the point of use is a must for efficiency and accuracy in fast-paced material handling operations. Labels that clearly indicate fill levels on fluid gauges or tension thresholds on conveyor belts, chains, pulleys and other moving parts can serve as preventive maintenance indicators or visual cues for service. Labeling irregularly shaped equipment can sometimes be a problem, but today's label printers can overcome this dilemma with fixed-length labels.