Warehouse Workers Push for More Automation as Safety Concerns Rise

According to a new Warehousing Vision Study from Zebra Technologies, warehouse workers are raising alarms over safety risks. Seventy percent express concerns about injuries on the job. As warehouses handle rising order volumes and labor shortages, many workers say automation could make their jobs safer and more efficient.

Workers Say Automation Is Critical

The study found that 85% of warehouse workers believe their employers must invest in technology to meet business goals. However, many feel progress is too slow, with 74% reporting they spend too much time on tasks that could be automated and 69% citing staff shortages as a major issue.

Even warehouse leaders recognize the challenge. According to the report:

• 63% of warehouse leaders plan to implement AI and augmented reality within five years.
• 64% expect to increase spending on warehouse modernization in the next five years.
• 63% have already accelerated their tech investments or plan to do so by 2029.

AI, Automation Seen as a Solution

Automation is widely seen as the best way to reduce physical strain and prevent injuries. Nearly 80% of warehouse leaders believe AI will help detect hazards, while 82% say technology can improve productivity and worker safety.

“Warehouse associates are telling us they feel their lives would be better if their employers thoughtfully integrated more automation into their workflows,” said Andres Boullosa, Global Warehouse Vertical Strategy Leader at Zebra Technologies.

Workers overwhelmingly support the shift toward tech-driven solutions:

• 88% want collaborative robots to assist with tasks.
• 91% say task management tools would help reduce workload stress.
• 93% believe better technology would help attract and retain employees.

Regional Findings: Safety, SLAs, and Automation Needs Vary

Concerns and priorities vary by region:

• North America: 88% of warehouse decision-makers say adopting new technology is essential to remain competitive in a fast-paced, on-demand economy.
• Europe: Workplace safety is a major concern, with 73% of workers worried about injuries on the warehouse floor.
• Latin America: 70% of warehouse leaders who are investing in automation say their top reason is to reduce errors and improve accuracy.
• Asia-Pacific: 88% of decision-makers say missed service level agreements (SLAs) are a huge financial burden, making efficiency gains critical.

Warehouses Under Pressure to Keep Up

The demand for warehouse space is growing fast, with global warehouse square footage expected to expand by 27% by 2030. At the same time, labor costs are rising at a 7% annual rate, making automation even more critical.

With e-commerce expectations increasing and hiring struggles continuing, warehouse leaders are racing to modernize operations. The study suggests that businesses investing in AI, robotics, and automation tools will be better positioned to improve safety, efficiency, and long-term success.

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