Warehouse Safety: Small Steps That Make a Big Difference

Warehouse environments are fast-paced and essential to keeping goods moving, but they also come with unique safety challenges. From forklift traffic and repetitive lifting to heat exposure and slip hazards, staying aware of workplace risks is key to preventing injuries.

Some of the most important safety practices include:

	Staying hydrated and taking cool-down breaks to prevent heat illness.
	Using proper lifting techniques and ergonomic tools to reduce repetitive motion injuries.
	Remaining alert around forklifts, following designated pedestrian walkways, and watching for blind intersections.
	Reporting slip, trip, and fall hazards such as cluttered walkways, poor lighting, or uneven surfaces.
	Wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety shoes, gloves, and other job-specific protection.

Remember: California employers are responsible for providing a safe work environment, including proper training, injury prevention programs, and workplace protections for both permanent and temporary employees.

If you have work-related questions or need to file a complaint about your workplace, we can help you! Call the Education and Leadership Foundation at

559 291 5428

All workers have a right to a safe and healthful workplace, regardless of immigration status. Your call is confidential.

Learn More: Read the full Warehouse Worker Safety Fact Sheet from the California Department of Industrial Relations, Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA): https://www.dir.ca.gov/dosh/dosh_publications/warehouse-worker-safety-fs.pdf

Source Credit: Content adapted from the Warehouse Worker Safety Fact Sheet published by Cal/OSHA and highlighted by the California Occupational Health Professionals Association (CalOPHA).