Amazon warehouses, also known as fulfillment centers, are bustling hubs of activity where employees work together to pick, pack, and ship customer orders. If you’re an employee or considering a job at an Amazon warehouse, you might be wondering: what can I bring into the warehouse? This article provides an in-depth guide to what’s allowed and what’s not in an Amazon warehouse.
Employees at Amazon warehouses can bring comfortable clothing, personal protective equipment, food and drinks, cell phones, medications, and personal tools. However, these items are subject to safety and anti-theft policies. For example, cell phone use is restricted to break times, and food and drinks are not allowed on the warehouse floor. Personal tools and equipment may be inspected for safety compliance. Non-work-related personal items are allowed, but using company resources for personal use is prohibited.
Clothing and Personal Items
When it comes to clothing, the rule of thumb is comfort and safety. You’re allowed to wear jeans, sweatpants, yoga pants, gym leggings, and joggers. Head coverings like beanies, hats, headscarves, hijabs, and baseball caps are also allowed.
However, certain items are not allowed due to safety and anti-theft policies. Long, hanging jewelry or loop earrings are not permitted. Accessories and phones are also forbidden on the warehouse floor, although you can use your phone during breaks.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Personal Protective Equipment or PPE is crucial in a warehouse setting. Amazon requires employees to wear safety gloves, available from vending machines within the facility. Depending on the facility, steel-toe shoes may be required while running shoes may be allowed in others.
Food and Drinks
You are allowed to bring your own food and drinks into the Amazon warehouse. However, these items are not allowed on the warehouse floor. Most Amazon facilities have canteens and vending machines where you can buy snacks and drinks. Coffee and tea are generally provided for free to warehouse associates.
Electronic Devices
Amazon allows warehouse employees to keep their cell phones with them while they work, overturning a previous ban on cell phones. However, the use of phones is restricted to break times. Other electronic devices like laptops are generally not permitted inside the warehouse.
Medications and Health-Related Items
Employees can bring medications or other health-related items, provided they follow proper storage and handling guidelines. It’s important to note that employees should maintain discretion when taking medications at work.
Personal Tools and Equipment
Employees are allowed to bring their own tools or equipment to work, but the safety and compliance of these items are the employer’s responsibility. Amazon has the right to inspect all personal tools and equipment to ensure they meet safety standards.
Non-Work-Related Items
While Amazon allows employees to bring personal items like photos, diplomas, and coffee mugs, using company resources for personal use is prohibited. Taking company property like stationery, computer equipment, or stock for sale is considered theft.
In conclusion, while Amazon allows certain items in their warehouse, others are restricted for safety, security, and productivity reasons. As an employee, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with these guidelines to ensure a smooth and efficient working experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a backpack to the Amazon warehouse?
Yes, you can bring a backpack to the Amazon warehouse. However, it’s subject to inspection and should not be taken on the warehouse floor during work hours. It should be stored in designated areas like lockers.
Are headphones allowed in the Amazon warehouse?
No, headphones are not allowed on the warehouse floor. This is due to safety reasons, as it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings in a busy warehouse environment.
Can I bring my own safety gloves and steel-toe shoes?
Yes, you can bring your own safety gloves and steel-toe shoes. However, they must comply with Amazon’s safety standards. Amazon also provides safety gloves and may provide steel-toe shoes depending on the facility.
Are there any restrictions on the type of food or drinks I can bring?
There are no specific restrictions on the type of food or drinks you can bring, but they should be stored in designated areas and not taken on the warehouse floor.
Can I use my phone to listen to music during work hours?
No, the use of phones is restricted to break times. This includes listening to music. The main reason is to maintain productivity and safety in the warehouse.
