An object that is built to your needs, if you intend to use it for its intended purpose, will not have any special requirements other than regular maintenance of the facility and servicing of safety systems in it. When purchasing an existing property or leasing one, pay attention to whether there is a change of use for the space compared to the building or occupancy permit issued. If not (a less common case), there is no need for additional safety measures beyond what already exists.

Otherwise (more common case), you should contact the relevant construction authority regarding the need to obtain the necessary permits, which will be decided in prescribed procedures assessing the adequacy of fire safety measures.

In addition to the above, handling a warehouse in terms of workplace safety is similar to handling any other business premises, involving updating the risk assessment, testing electrical installations and the working environment, and creating an evacuation plan. Always consider how the warehouse will function – shelves must have load capacity data, and if both pedestrians and forklifts pass through the warehouse, you must provide separate routes of movement, clearly marked on the floor with lines 5 cm wide. The forklift route must be at least 1.8 meters wide or 80 cm wider than the forklift or the load it typically carries. In practice, this means that the route should be at least 2 meters wide, while for employees/pedestrians, it should be at least 80 cm wide.

Have clear instructions at the entrance to the warehouse (who is allowed to enter and under what conditions – wearing personal protective equipment, etc.). If you will be using forklifts, be aware that only persons trained to operate forklifts are allowed to handle them. Working in a warehouse often involves jobs with special working conditions, which means that before assigning people to the position of warehouse worker, you will most likely need to send them for a medical examination to determine their fitness for work, and you will need to provide personal protective equipment (e.g., work clothing, safety shoes, gloves, etc.) to all warehouse employees.

Tip of the day

There is an interesting saying: "Three key things that cause accidents – I didn't see, I didn't ask, and I didn't think." This is especially true in our industry. So, I'll summarize the most important points from the text once again:

• Define the purpose of the warehouse and assess your needs and obligations.
• Work on warehouse processing according to regulations (risk assessment, inspections, evacuation plan).
• Define pedestrian and forklift traffic routes.
• Clear instructions and signage at the entrance to the warehouse.
• Conduct medical examinations for jobs with special working conditions.
• Supply warehouse employees with personal protective equipment.

So, make sure your people see what they need to see and have answers to any questions they might have. Through constant communication and education (yes, education!), work on raising their awareness to minimize "I didn't think" situations.