With 2026 fast approaching, warehouses and logistics operations across the UK are setting their sights on the year ahead. For many, improving safety is at the top of the agenda – and if it isn’t, it should be!
The start of a new year is an ideal time to reflect on existing processes, identify potential risks, and put plans in place to create a safer, smarter working environment for everyone on the warehouse floor.
The warehousing sector continues to evolve at speed, yet amid all change one thing remains constant: people. The success of any warehouse operation still relies on well-trained, well-equipped teams who can work in full confidence – and that makes safety the cornerstone of productivity, as well as a moral imperative. Nothing, not even your bottom line, is more important than the safety of your staff.
The Importance of Maintenance
Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Midland Pallet Trucks, says, “A culture of safety isn’t just about ticking boxes: it’s about mindset. Every piece of equipment, every walkway, and every process plays a part in keeping people safe and productivity high. At the start of a new year, it’s worth taking a step back to make sure those systems are as strong as they can be.”
One of the simplest yet most effective safety resolutions for 2026 is to start the year with a thorough equipment audit. Pallet trucks, lift tables, and electric stacker trucks are among the hardest-working tools in any warehouse, and regular inspections ensure they remain reliable.
Faulty hydraulics, worn rollers, or malfunctioning brakes can easily turn into safety hazards if ignored. Investing in high-quality, well-maintained equipment can drastically reduce the risk of accidents – and the downtime that follows.
Improving Safety Training
Training should also be a priority. Maintenance can prevent accidents from occurring because of faulty tools, but they cannot protect from the dangers of improper use.
Reviewing training materials, refreshing operator certifications, and ensuring seasonal or temporary staff receive proper inductions can go a long way toward building safer habits across the team. Making sure the warehouse itself is up to code with safety regulation is another essential check that must never be skipped.
“Safety and efficiency go hand in hand,” Chesworth adds. “By investing in better equipment, regular maintenance, and ongoing training, warehouses can create an environment where people can work confidently and operations run smoothly. It’s the best resolution any business can make for 2026.”