Health and Safety in Warehouses: Key Risk Areas

### Workplace Transport Forklift trucks and pedestrians sharing space is one of the most dangerous combinations in a warehouse. Effective segregation through barriers, marked walkways, and traffic management plans is essential. ### Racking and Storage Racking must be installed, inspected and maintained correctly. Damage from forklift impact can compromise structural integrity. Regular SEMA-style inspections and a damage reporting system are recommended. ### Fire Loading Warehouses often contain high fire loads — combustible packaging, plastics and stored goods. Fire risk assessments must consider fire loading, storage heights, aisle widths and sprinkler protection where fitted. ### Battery Charging Lithium and lead-acid battery charging areas require ventilation, separation from combustibles, and emergency procedures for thermal runaway. ### Pedestrian Segregation Clearly marked, barrier-protected pedestrian routes — with crossing points and visibility at junctions — reduce the risk of vehicle-pedestrian incidents.