Warehouse Worker Workwear and PPE: What Logistics Staff Need in Australia
Written and reviewed by the Max Global Products team · Updated October 2026
Quick answer: a warehouse worker needs lightweight AS 2210.3 safety runners or boots, AS/NZS 4602.1 Class D hi-vis (a polo or vest) so forklift drivers can see them, cut-resistant gloves for box cutting and strapping, a bump cap or hard hat where overhead racking or loads are a risk, hearing protection in loud areas, and freezer-rated clothing for cold store work.
The warehouse kit list
| Item | What to look for | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| Safety footwear | AS 2210.3 safety runners for walking and picking on concrete all day; lightweight composite caps. | Safety runners, e.g. Hard Yakka Icon composite toe safety shoe, Cougar Champion jogger, JB's Renegade safety jogger |
| Hi-vis | Class D polo or vest for indoor and daytime yards; D/N for night shifts and dock work. | Hard Yakka Class D hi-vis polo, Syzmik ZV999 Class D/N vest |
| Cut-resistant gloves | Cut level B to D with a grippy coating for cartons, shrink wrap and strapping. | Force360 sand nitrile (Cut B), PIP PosigripMAX Cut D |
| Head protection | Bump caps protect against knocks on racking. They do not protect against falling objects; use a hard hat where loads are overhead. | Portwest AirTech bump cap, head protection |
| Hearing protection | Earplugs near conveyors, compressors and loading docks. | Howard Leight 303 earplugs |
| Cold store gear | Freezer jacket, pants and gloves for chillers and freezers. | Freezer workwear, see our cold store guide |
| First aid | A stocked workplace kit at each work area. | First aid kits |
Forklifts and manual handling
Being struck by a forklift is a leading cause of serious warehouse injury, which is why hi-vis is standard even indoors. Pedestrian exclusion zones and traffic plans come first. Manual handling causes the most injuries overall: see Safe Work Australia on lifting, pushing and pulling and transport.
Frequently asked questions
Do warehouse workers need steel cap boots?
Where there is a risk of dropped loads or pallet jacks rolling over feet, yes. Most warehouses accept AS 2210.3 safety runners with steel or composite toecaps, which are lighter for walking all shift.
Do you need hi-vis inside a warehouse?
Most warehouses with forklifts require Class D hi-vis indoors so drivers can see pedestrians. Night shifts and outdoor yards need D/N.
What gloves are best for warehouse work?
Lightweight coated gloves with a cut rating of B to D. They keep dexterity for scanning and picking while protecting against blades and strapping.
Outfitting a team
Running a DC or warehouse team? Apply for a trade account. See the full guide by trade.
Last reviewed October 2026. This guide covers common kit; your employer's risk assessment and site rules decide what is mandatory.