The Warehouse Safety Tornado Preparedness Act, prompted by a deadly 2021 tornado that destroyed an Amazon distribution center in Edwardsville, IL, was signed into law by Illinois Governor JB Pritzker on Aug. 15.

The new law, HB2987, requires all warehouse operators to develop a tornado safety plan, mandates that new warehouses include a designated shelter area and sets a certification requirement for city and county building inspectors through the International Code Council.

MDM’s 2Q25 MarketPulse Report (store link) 

Warehouse operators have 120 days to complete tornado plans for existing facilities, or one week after a new warehouse begins operations. The certification requirement for inspectors will take effect on Jan. 1, 2027.

According to the legislation, each tornado safety plan must include: a floor plan showing emergency exits, assembly points, shelter areas and landmarks; a written description of required actions for employees and supervisors during a tornado warning or severe weather; a list of emergency equipment, including its location and usage instructions; and a written description of post-event procedures, including basic first aid and communication protocols with coworkers and emergency personnel.

The law was approved by both the Illinois House and Senate during the legislative session in May.

During discussions on the bill, some raised concerns that additional requirements on warehouses could affect business operations.

In the Store: MDM’s U.S. MRO Market Trends Report 

The EF3 Edwardsville tornado killed six Amazon workers when it struck the distribution center, causing a roof collapse. It was determined that the collapse was caused in part by unanchored support columns, leading to accusations of negligence against Amazon.

To read more about the bill, click here.