Winter Safety Checklist for Warehouses

Winter conditions significantly increase the risks in warehouse environments. Cold temperatures, wet floors, ice, and reduced daylight all contribute to increased slips, trips, vehicle incidents, and near misses.

For warehouse and facilities managers, winter workplace safety isn’t just about reacting to problems as they appear — it’s about putting the proper controls in place before conditions worsen. A clear, practical checklist helps reduce accidents, protect staff, and keep operations running smoothly throughout the colder months.

The Biggest Winter Safety Risks in Warehouses

Winter introduces predictable hazards that are often concentrated around high-traffic areas.

Common risks include:

• Slippery entrances and loading bays
• Ice and snow on external walkways and yards
• Wet floors from tracked-in rain or melting snow
• Condensation in temperature-controlled areas
• Reduced grip for forklifts and pallet trucks
• Poor visibility during darker mornings and evenings

Identifying these risks early makes it easier to apply targeted safety measures before incidents occur.

Winter Safety Checklist for Warehouse Managers

Control Slips and Trips at Entrances

Entrances are one of the highest-risk areas during winter. Water, ice and dirt are constantly brought inside, creating slippery conditions.

Installing effective safety matting helps absorb moisture, improve traction and reduce the spread of water across the warehouse floor. Well-placed matting also reduces cleaning demands and supports safer movement for staff and visitors.

Manage Ice and Snow Outside the Warehouse 

External areas are often overlooked, but icy walkways and yards present serious hazards.

Clearly positioned, well-stocked, and easy-to-access grit bins enable teams to respond quickly to changing conditions. Assigning responsibility for gritting schedules helps ensure outdoor areas remain safe during cold spells and overnight temperature drops.

Review Flooring and Traffic Routes

Winter conditions can change how floors behave, particularly in areas used by forklifts and pallet trucks.

Review pedestrian walkways and vehicle routes to ensure surfaces remain suitable in wet or cold conditions. Temporary signage and route adjustments can help reduce risk during particularly severe weather.

Use the Right Winter Equipment 

Having the correct winter management equipment in place makes a noticeable difference to safety and efficiency.

This may include:

• Entrance safety matting

• Grit bins and salt supplies

• Temporary barriers or signage

• Protective floor coverings in high-risk zones

These simple measures support safer operations without significant disruption.

Protect Indoor Areas From Cold and Moisture 

Cold air entering through loading bays and doorways can lead to condensation and wet floors inside the warehouse.

Separating heated and unheated zones and reducing water ingress with PVC strip curtains helps maintain safer walking surfaces and improve overall working conditions during winter.

Brief Staff and Reinforce Winter Procedures 

Staff awareness is essential for effective winter safety management. Short briefings or toolbox talks help reinforce reporting procedures and highlight seasonal risks.

Encouraging early reporting of hazards allows issues to be addressed before they lead to accidents.

Preparing Your Warehouse for Winter Starts Now

Winter risks are predictable — and manageable. By following a clear checklist and implementing the proper controls, warehouses can reduce accidents, minimise downtime, and demonstrate a strong duty of care.

Reviewing your winter safety measures now helps ensure your warehouse remains safe, compliant and efficient throughout the colder months.