5 Safety Signs You Need for Your Warehouse & Distribution Centre

The UK’s warehousing and storage industry has grown rapidly in recent years, fuelled by demand for e-commerce, third-party logistics and just-in-time delivery. According to IBISWorld, the sector is worth over £36 billion, employing tens of thousands of people across fulfilment centres, cold stores and traditional warehouses. With high racking systems, fast-moving forklift traffic, and often hazardous materials on-site, warehouses are among the most safety-critical working environments.

To run an efficient and compliant warehouse, signage is not a luxury, it’s essential. Clear, well-positioned safety signs help reduce the risk of accidents, improve operational flow and support compliance with UK health and safety regulations. 

Here are five categories of signs every warehouse or distribution centre should consider.

1. Forklift & Vehicle Movement Signs

Forklift trucks are essential in most warehouses, but they come with significant risk, especially where pedestrian and vehicle routes cross. Accidents can result in serious injury, costly damage, and legal action. To reduce these risks, display clear signage around all loading bays, aisles and crossings.

A Forklift Trucks Operating sign is a simple but highly effective warning, and should be used near entrances and busy handling zones. Where foot traffic is expected, consider a Caution Pedestrian sign to reinforce right of way and prevent accidents. These signs act as visual reminders to slow down, check surroundings and stay alert.

2. Racking Load and Storage Safety Signs

Heavy loads at height demand strict adherence to weight limits and proper stacking protocols. Overloading shelves or improper use of racking can result in collapse, injury or damage to goods.

Clearly visible Racking Load Notices should be displayed on or near each bay, showing safe working loads and maximum capacity. Not only is this a best-practice approach, it also helps warehouse operatives make informed decisions during restocking or pick operations. In areas where surveillance is in place, a CCTV in Operation sign can deter unsafe behaviour and reinforce accountability.

3. Emergency Exit and First Aid Signs

Every warehouse needs a clearly marked evacuation plan. Whether due to fire, injury or chemical spill, your team must be able to move quickly and safely to designated assembly points.

Fire Exit signs should be clearly displayed above all emergency doors and along routes leading to them. For enhanced visibility in low light, photoluminescent material is strongly advised. Don’t forget to mark your first aid station with a First Aid sign so staff know where to go for help. These signs are more than visual aids; they're part of your emergency response system.

4. PPE & Prohibited Behaviour Signs

Many warehouse zones require mandatory PPE. Whether it's steel toe caps, high-vis jackets, gloves or hearing protection, signs remind staff to wear the correct kit in the right areas.

A High Visibility Jackets Must Be Worn Sign near the goods-in or dispatch areas reinforces on-site rules. Meanwhile, signs such as No Smoking or Vaping signs or Keep Clear signs around fire doors and hazardous zones help reinforce safe habits and legal compliance.

5. Visitor & Delivery Area Signs

Warehouses often receive visitors, contractors and delivery drivers unfamiliar with the site layout. Prevent confusion, delays or unsafe access by using directional and instruction signage at your entrances.

A All Visitors and Drivers Must Report to Reception sign encourages proper check-in procedures and supports site security. Pair this with clear delivery bay signage, such as Goods In sign or arrows directing to warehouse offices. These signs improve traffic flow and reduce bottlenecks, especially at peak times.

Why Safety Signs Matter

Safety signs are more than just symbols, they’re communication tools. Used correctly, they help prevent accidents, guide people around your site, and support a safer, more professional working environment.

A good safety sign:

1. Enhances safety – highlighting hazards and safe practices.
   

2. Improves efficiency – reducing confusion and downtime.
   

3. Reinforces professionalism – presenting a well-run, well-organised site.
   

4. Supports compliance – helping meet your legal obligations under UK health and safety law.
   

At Parrot Signs & Graphics, we supply durable, clearly legible safety signs designed for busy warehouse environments. If you need help selecting signs, need to add custom wording, or want to brand them with your company colours or logo, just get in touch.