Warehouse Safety Regulations You Must Follow in Bangladesh

Introduction: Why Warehouse Safety Matters

As Bangladesh rapidly grows as a manufacturing and export hub in South Asia, warehousing plays a critical role in supply chain management. Whether you’re dealing with ready-made garments (RMG), pharmaceuticals, or electronics, a safe warehouse is not just about compliance—it’s about efficiency, risk management, and worker welfare.

With increasing foreign investment and global scrutiny, compliance with Bangladesh’s warehouse safety regulations is essential. Failure to meet these requirements can result in hefty fines, shipment delays, loss of goods, or even legal closure of facilities.

In this article, we’ll explore the key warehouse safety regulations in Bangladesh, the agencies involved, and how local agents can help you stay compliant Bangladesh-Agent.com.

1. Legal Framework for Warehouse Safety in Bangladesh

a) Bangladesh Labor Act 2006 (Amended 2018)

The Bangladesh Labor Act governs workplace safety in all industrial facilities, including warehouses. Key provisions related to warehouse operations include:

• Proper ventilation, lighting, and cleanliness

• Safe access to fire exits and staircases

• Provision of drinking water and sanitation

• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) where required

🡪 Learn more: Bangladesh Labor Act (ILO English version)

b) Factories Rules 1979

Although originally designed for factory environments, these rules extend to storage and warehousing areas attached to industrial operations.

Some critical clauses include:

• Fire prevention and extinguishing arrangements

• Storage limits for flammable or hazardous goods

• Safe stacking and racking procedures

• Noise and ventilation limits

2. Key Safety Standards to Implement

Whether your warehouse is located in Dhaka, Chattogram, or an EPZ (Export Processing Zone), your setup must align with internationally accepted standards—especially if you’re exporting to the US or EU.

a) Fire Safety Compliance

Fire safety is a top concern in Bangladesh’s industrial zones. Key requirements include:

• Fire extinguishers and smoke alarms in working condition

• Clearly marked emergency exits with lighting

• Fire drills conducted at least twice a year

• Use of fire-retardant building materials where possible

🡪 Related blog: Smart Warehousing and Cold Chain Logistics in Vietnam: Trends and Opportunities — see how Vietnam is handling smart warehouse infrastructure.

b) Material Handling and Equipment Safety

Warehouse managers must ensure:

• All forklifts, trolleys, and cranes are regularly inspected

• Operators are trained and licensed

• Safe weight limits are marked and enforced on all racking systems

• Items are not stacked in unstable configurations

c) Employee Safety Protocols

• All warehouse staff must receive induction safety training

• Use of helmets, gloves, vests, and boots is mandatory in designated zones

• First-aid kits and trained first responders should be available

• Dangerous goods (like chemicals or flammable materials) must be labeled and segregated

3. Regulatory Agencies Overseeing Warehouse Safety

Several government and autonomous bodies oversee warehouse and workplace safety in Bangladesh:

🡪 Pro Tip: A local liaison agent can help coordinate with these agencies to avoid red tape delays.
🡪 Related: The Benefits of Using a Local Liaison Agent in Bangladesh

4. Documentation and Inspection Protocols

Before your warehouse can be fully operational, you’ll need:

• Fire safety clearance certificate from FSCD

• Environmental clearance (for storage of hazardous or chemical items)

• Occupational health and safety compliance checklist

• Warehouse layout approved by local building authority or RAJUK

• Insurance papers covering liability and damages

Annual inspections by DIFE and fire safety departments are common, especially for export-oriented businesses or bonded warehouses.

🡪 Related: Digitizing the Bangladesh Customs Clearance Process

5. Agent Services for Warehouse Setup and Compliance

Navigating local warehouse safety laws and bureaucratic requirements can be overwhelming—especially for international brands. This is where local agent services become vital.

A warehouse agent in Bangladesh can help with:

• Site selection and local zoning compliance

• Safety certification application and renewal

• Coordinating fire drills and training sessions

• Equipment procurement (PPEs, extinguishers, signage)

• Ensuring ongoing OSHA or ILO-compliance if required

🡪 Related: Top Services Every Global Brand Needs When Entering the Bangladeshi Market

6. Consequences of Non-Compliance

Non-compliance can result in:

• Fines from BDT 50,000 to several lakhs

• Suspension of export licenses (if bonded)

• Closure of facilities for safety violations

• Reputational damage—especially for brands tied to ethical supply chains

Conclusion: Make Safety a Core Investment

Warehouse safety isn’t just a checkbox—it’s an investment in your supply chain’s resilience, your team’s productivity, and your brand’s reputation. In Bangladesh’s dynamic and fast-growing industrial landscape, staying compliant with warehouse safety regulations is crucial for long-term success.

If you’re planning to set up or optimize your warehouse operations in Bangladesh, consider working with experienced agents who understand both the law and logistics.

👉 Need help with warehouse compliance or agent sourcing?
Visit Bangladesh-Agent.com to connect with vetted logistics and safety specialists today.