Running a warehouse is not easy; even with all of our advancements in AI and technology. In fact, I have seen firsthand how costly it can be to ignore the basics of safety compliance. That’s why at Warehouse Buyers Club, we not only help businesses find the right equipment at wholesale prices—we’re also committed to keeping warehouses safe and OSHA-compliant.

If you want to avoid fines, injuries, and downtime, there are five common OSHA infractions you need to stay ahead of. Here’s what they are—and how to avoid them with practical, proven best practices.

1. Forklift Violations (Powered Industrial Trucks – 1910.178)

The Infraction:
Improper operation, lack of training, and poor maintenance of forklifts are among OSHA’s top citations every year.

The Solution:
Every operator needs to be trained and certified—not just “shown how it works.” I always tell clients: don’t just assume someone with experience knows the rules. Certification must be renewed every 3 years, and refresher training is required after accidents or near misses.

Best Practice:
Set up a formal training program and document everything. Also, require a daily forklift inspection checklist—it’s quick, easy, and catches problems before they become serious.

2. Inadequate Hazard Communication (1910.1200)

The Infraction:
Failing to properly label chemicals or provide safety data sheets (SDS) is another common issue. OSHA expects clear communication on hazardous materials.

The Solution:
Make sure every chemical container is labeled correctly and SDS documents are easily accessible. Train staff on what those labels mean and what to do in case of exposure.

Best Practice:
Create a central SDS station in your warehouse and conduct brief quarterly reviews with staff. Assign one person to keep the SDS binder current—accountability matters. We also recommend QR code posters that link to digital SDS databases for faster access.

3. Blocked or Improper Exits (1910.36)

The Infraction:
Exit routes must be clear, visible, and free from obstruction. You’d be surprised how often exit doors are blocked by pallets or parked equipment.

The Solution:
Walk your floor weekly and inspect all exit routes. Make it part of your standard walkthrough. If your egress paths aren’t marked and illuminated, you’re at risk for both fines and real danger in an emergency.

Best Practice:
Use floor tape and signage to keep exit paths clear. We’ve helped many clients find affordable LED exit signs and glow-in-the-dark floor markings that improve visibility during power outages.

4. Poor Material Storage (1910.176)

The Infraction:
Improper stacking, unstable loads, or storing materials too close to sprinklers or electrical panels are red flags.

The Solution:
Train your team on stacking protocols—heavier items at the bottom, lighter ones up top, and no leaning pallets. Keep at least 18 inches of clearance from sprinkler heads and 36 inches from electrical panels.

Best Practice:
Invest in proper racking systems and anti-collapse mesh panels. It’s not just about compliance—it also boosts efficiency and space usage. We offer modular racking options that are easy to install and help enforce safe storage habits.

5. Missing or Damaged Fall Protection (1910.28/29)

The Infraction:
OSHA requires fall protection for any work done at 4 feet or higher in general industry, and violations include missing guardrails or damaged harnesses.

The Solution:
Any time your team is working on mezzanines, elevated platforms, or ladders, proper fall protection must be in place—and in good condition. That includes railings, toe boards, harnesses, and anchor points.

Best Practice:
Do a monthly fall protection inspection and replace anything worn or broken. And don’t overlook training—people need to know how to use harnesses properly.

Final Thoughts

Safety isn’t about checking boxes—it’s about protecting people. OSHA’s not the bad guy here. They’re trying to keep our teams alive and our businesses running. The key is to build a safety culture, not just a compliance strategy.

At Warehouse Buyers Club, we believe in simplifying safety. That’s why we offer our members everything from compliant racking and signage to safety tips and training tools that help keep infractions off your doorstep. If you need help making your warehouse safer and more efficient, give us a call—I’m always happy to talk shop.

Stay safe, stay productive.

— Jeff Hillen
CEO, Warehouse Buyers Club