Educational workplace-safety awareness — connected to industries, occupations, employment law, employment documents and company types. Informational only — not legal advice and not a substitute for mandatory workplace safety training; employers remain responsible for compliance, training and worker authorization.
Who this guide is for
This guide is for people starting work in a warehouse or distribution centre who want a general sense of the hazards and how safety is managed. It is awareness only — it does not train, certify or authorise you to operate any equipment.
Your employer’s site induction, risk assessment and rules always come first. Where this guide is general, your workplace will give you the specific instruction and training that applies to you.
What to expect as a new warehouse worker
- A site safety induction before you start, including a tour of the layout.
- A briefing on traffic routes and how people and forklifts are kept apart.
- Information on manual handling and the aids available for lifting.
- Details of emergency exits, the alarm and the assembly point.
- The PPE you need, such as high-visibility clothing and safety footwear.
- Task-specific instruction, and training before you use any equipment.
Key things to know in a warehouse
- Where pedestrian routes are and where vehicles operate.
- How to lift safely and where mechanical aids are kept.
- Which equipment you may use and which needs separate training.
- How racking, stacking and storage are meant to be kept safe.
- Where spills, blockages and damage should be reported.
- Who your supervisor is and how to reach them quickly.
How to work safely in a warehouse
- Follow pedestrian routes and give way to forklifts and vehicles.
- Lift within your capability and use aids and good technique.
- Wear high-visibility clothing and safety footwear in vehicle areas.
- Never climb racking — use the safe access equipment provided.
- Only operate equipment, such as a forklift, if you are trained and authorised.
What to do if something is unsafe
- Stop and stay clear of the hazard if it is not safe to continue.
- Tell your supervisor or a manager immediately.
- Report damaged racking, pallets, equipment or spills straight away.
- Ask before handling or storing a load if you are unsure how to do it safely.
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