8 Common Safety Risks in Nonprofit and Volunteer Organisations

Nonprofit and volunteer organisations play a vital role in supporting communities and addressing social, environmental, and humanitarian challenges.

However, these organisations are not immune to safety risks. Often operating with limited resources and diverse volunteer teams, nonprofits must be proactive in managing safety to protect their people, reputation, and the communities they serve.

Below, we explore eight common safety risks that nonprofit and volunteer organisations should be aware of—and actively work to mitigate.

Inadequate Volunteer Training

Volunteers are at the heart of many nonprofit operations. However, insufficient training can lead to accidents, errors, or unsafe practices. Whether working in food banks, charity shops, or disaster relief, volunteers need clear guidance on safe working practices, equipment use, safeguarding, and emergency procedures.

Mitigation:

Provide structured induction programmes, role-specific training, and refresher courses. Consider developing a volunteer handbook outlining key safety procedures.

Poor Risk Assessments

Nonprofits sometimes overlook formal risk assessments, especially for one-off events or small-scale activities. However, without properly identifying hazards, organisations expose volunteers and beneficiaries to unnecessary danger.

Mitigation:

Carry out thorough risk assessments for all activities, regardless of size or frequency, and implement controls to minimise risks.

Manual Handling Hazards

Charity shops, food distribution centres, and fundraising events often involve lifting, carrying, or moving stock and equipment. Improper manual handling can result in musculoskeletal injuries.

Mitigation:

Provide manual handling training and ensure volunteers use appropriate equipment (e.g., trolleys, lifting aids). Encourage safe lifting techniques and team lifting when necessary.

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Many nonprofit environments—such as community centres, event venues, and temporary outdoor setups—pose slip and trip hazards due to uneven surfaces, trailing wires, or wet floors.

Mitigation:

Regularly inspect premises and venues for hazards, keep walkways clear, and respond promptly to spills or maintenance issues. Temporary event sites should be risk assessed before use.

Safeguarding and Abuse Risks

Nonprofits working with vulnerable populations—including children, the elderly, and people with disabilities—must safeguard against abuse, exploitation, and neglect.

Mitigation:

Implement safeguarding policies and conduct background checks on staff and volunteers. Provide safeguarding training and establish clear reporting procedures.

Driving and Transport Risks

Volunteers may drive for charitable purposes, such as delivering supplies, transporting beneficiaries, or running errands. Vehicle accidents or poorly maintained vehicles pose significant risks.

Mitigation:

Check driving licences and insurance, ensure vehicles are roadworthy, and provide driver safety guidance. Where possible, use vehicles insured and maintained by the organisation.

Fire Safety Failures

Community halls, charity shops, and storage areas can all be at risk of fire if electrical equipment is faulty, exits are blocked, or fire safety measures are inadequate.

Mitigation:

Carry out regular fire risk assessments, ensure fire exits are accessible, maintain firefighting equipment, and conduct fire drills.

Stress and Burnout

Volunteers and nonprofit staff often work under emotional pressure or in challenging environments, increasing the risk of stress and burnout. This can lead to mistakes, poor decision-making, and diminished safety awareness.

Mitigation:

Promote wellbeing, offer support networks, and encourage volunteers to take breaks and set boundaries. Cultivate a positive culture that recognises the importance of mental health.

Conclusion

Safety should be a fundamental part of any nonprofit or volunteer organisation’s operations. By understanding and addressing these common risks, organisations can create safer environments for their volunteers, staff, and service users—ensuring they can continue their valuable work without unnecessary harm or disruption.

For nonprofits, taking a proactive approach to safety is not only a legal and moral responsibility—it’s also essential for sustaining trust and achieving long-term impact.