Summer can create unexpected staffing challenges across warehousing, logistics, industrial, and office environments. Holiday cover, peak season demand, and rising absenteeism all put pressure on core teams — especially warehouse staff. This quick-r checklist will help you assess your exposure and take action before it’s too late.
Your 10-Minute Warehouse Staff Risk Assessment
Ask yourself these key questions:
1. Do I know how many team members are off on leave this summer and when?
Lack of visibility can lead to last-minute gaps that affect productivity.
2. Have I factored in seasonal peaks in orders, production, or deliveries?
Summer demand surges vary by sector but they’re common in food, drink, and retail fulfilment.
3. Do I have a pool of reliable temporary warehouse staff on standby?
If your answer is no, your operation could grind to a halt during short-notice absences.
4. Is my current team already stretched or covering multiple roles?
Over-reliance on your core staff can lead to burnout and more absences.
5. Do I have contingency plans in place for sickness, childcare issues or transport delays?
Even small issues can cause big disruption when staffing is tight.
6. Have I reviewed shift patterns to accommodate hotter working conditions?
Adjusting working hours or rotations can improve productivity and morale.
7. Is my onboarding process efficient enough to integrate temporary workers quickly?
If not, experienced agency staff familiar with warehouse environments can hit the ground running.
8. Do I have visibility of all compliance needs across staff types?
Especially important for driver hours, warehouse safety and regulated sectors.
9. Do I have the right balance of skills in my workforce for the summer period?
From forklift licences to admin support, knowing where the gaps lie is essential.
10. Have I spoken to my recruitment partner about summer planning?
At Premier Placement Services, we work with clients early to forecast and fill roles before they become urgent.
Tick through each question with your team to quickly identify where you’re covered and where you might need support.