Warehouse Safety: How to Protect Yourself Around Equipment

April 14, 2025 | Career Blog

Working in a warehouse can be a rewarding career, but it comes with unique warehouse safety challenges and risks. Whether you currently work in a warehouse (and need a safety refresher) or are pursuing entry-level work, growing your knowledge of safety issues will pay off.

Contributing to a safe work environment will keep you and your co-workers safe, ensure efficient operations, and reduce workplace injuries. Knowing risks and being able to recognize problems will help you be a productive member of the workforce in your given company.

At Allegiance Staffing, we believe that safety should always come first. That’s why we created this guide to help you better understand how to protect yourself around warehouse equipment and recognize common hazards.

Why Warehouse Safety Matters in the Workplace

Warehouses are bustling hubs of activity, with moving equipment, heavier loads, and constant demands for productivity. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), warehouses are among the industries with the highest instances of workplace injuries. 

From slips, trips, and falls to issues caused by improper handling of warehouse equipment, understanding common safety hazards is vital to minimize risks. By staying informed and following OSHA standards, you can help maintain a safer working environment for yourself and your co-workers.

Common Warehouse Safety Hazards to Watch Out For 

You’ll encounter various safety considerations in a warehouse, especially involving heavy-duty equipment. Below are the most common safety hazards and our advice on managing them effectively.

1. Slips, Trips, and Falls 

Most warehouse injuries – such as slips, trips, and falls – result from cluttered aisles and passageways, wet floors, or uneven surfaces. Here’s a concerning stat. According to OSHA, these types of injuries cause about 15% of U.S. workplace fatalities each year.

• How to stay safe: Keep pathways clear, communicate with others when you see risks, and always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), like non-slip footwear. 

2. Heavy Equipment Operation 

Forklifts, pallet jacks, and conveyors are essential for moving heavier loads in the warehouse. But these large pieces of equipment can also pose serious risks without proper handling.

• How to stay safe: Only operate equipment you’re trained to use, keep a safe distance when others are using heavy equipment, and always follow OSHA equipment safety guidelines.

3. Lifting and Moving

Consistently lifting or moving heavier loads can lead to muscle strains or musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). You need to pay attention to signals from your body to know when you cannot lift safely anymore. Otherwise, you risk losing your balance or the strength to carry heavier loads, which could cause an injury.

• How to stay safe: Use proper lifting techniques, take breaks when necessary, and report any discomfort early to prevent long-term injuries. Don’t feel the need to “push through” if your body is not cooperating. Instead, communicate with your supervisor when you need a break.

4. Electrical Hazards

Malfunctioning machines, exposed wiring, or improper handling of electrical equipment from large pieces of equipment can lead to shocks or fires. You will want to complete safety training on equipment used in the warehouse so you can respond appropriately if there is an incident.

• How to stay safe: Inspect equipment regularly, report faults immediately, and ensure you’re trained on fire safety and the use of fire extinguishers.

5. Loading Dock Hazards 

Loading and unloading can be risky if performed without precautions. Hazards include falling from the dock, being struck by vehicles, or improperly positioned loads. Sometimes, hazards are as simple as being distracted while having a conversation with a co-worker.

• How to stay safe: Always use fall protection techniques, stay alert for moving vehicles, don’t take safety lightly, and secure loads properly.

Best Practices for Creating a Safe Work Environment 

Staying safe in a warehouse goes beyond recognizing the hazards. You need to build good habits and be proactive about working with or near equipment. Here are key tips to maximize safety during your shift.

1. Wear the Correct PPE

Always wear the PPE required for the job, such as gloves, helmets, safety goggles, and steel-toe shoes. This can prevent injuries caused by falling objects, sharp edges, or hazardous materials.

2. Use Your Safety Training

You will always want to follow safety protocols, including using the proper tools for the job. You can help reduce the injury rate in your warehouse by consistently following safety training – no matter how many times you’ve done the same task. The one time you try to take a shortcut or cut a corner could lead to a safety risk.

3. Understand Emergency Preparedness and Response 

Knowing what to do in an emergency – whether a fire or an evacuation – can save lives and prevent serious injuries. Familiarize yourself with the location of fire extinguishers, emergency exits, and first aid kits. Also, be comfortable operating each piece of emergency equipment.

4. Follow OSHA Standards 

Complying with OSHA workplace safety guidelines ensures that everyone is held to the same standard and that risks are minimized. OSHA covers everything from electrical hazards to proper use of equipment to help everyone use the same procedures when performing their duties.

5. Speak Up 

If you notice issues like faulty warehouse equipment or unsafe practices, report them immediately. Your voice can contribute to a safer workplace for everyone – no matter how long you’ve worked in a warehouse.

Remember that every accident is preventable. By following basic safety rules and communicating any issues you see, you can help reduce the risk of incidents.

Let’s Keep You Safe in the Warehouse

Whether it’s your first time stepping into a warehouse or you’re a seasoned worker, prioritizing safety is the smartest decision you can make. By staying educated, vigilant, and proactive, you’re not just protecting yourself – you’re contributing to a culture of safety that benefits everyone.

At Allegiance Staffing, we go beyond connecting you to the right opportunities in the warehouse. We also equip you with the knowledge to thrive in your role. We place a high value on warehouse safety so you can begin your next job with confidence.

– Follow us on LinkedIn for more educational resources to support you during your career.

– When you’re ready to find a new job in the warehouse, view our available jobs. We will help you find a new opportunity to use your skills safely and productively.