Prioritizing Pallet Rack Protection For Workplace Safety
When a company needs to maximize warehouse space, it often makes an investment in pallet racking. However, many forget to factor in pallet rack protection within their budget.
A significant impact to a rack system’s uprights can cause them to buckle, while repeated impacts weaken their structural integrity and load capacity, increasing the risk of a collapse that could harm employees and damage products. Reducing the chances of contact between forklifts and the racking is crucial for preventing such incidents.
Pallet Rack Protectors
Rack protectors come in various shapes and can be used in most applications, including narrow aisles where space is premium. The most common rack protection sits close to the upright, wraps around to protect it from all angles and is anchored at four points to the floor.
Most companies opt for protectors that are 18 inches in height, with safety yellow being an effective choice for enhancing forklift operator visibility.
Return On Investment
Justifying the cost of protection involves comparing expenses. While the average rack protector costs around $50—significantly less than replacing an upright—installing protectors in front of every upright can add up, depending on the number of racks in the warehouse.
Additional factors should be considered, such as the time needed to install a new upright, which involves unloading products, removing load beams, and potentially rerouting warehouse traffic. However, these efforts are minor compared to the serious consequences of a racking collapse.
Pallet Rack Inspection
It is recommended to create a regular inspection schedule for pallet racking to stay aware of potential hazards. Uprights at the ends of aisles are especially vulnerable to bumps from equipment, as operators may cut their turns too tightly and strike the uprights. Even small signs like scuff marks on the racks can indicate areas where lift impact issues are occurring.
Pallet Racking Safety Tips
In addition to rack protectors, consider these safety tips for pallet racking:
- Provide ample safety training for operators, making them aware of racking hazards
- Ensure a safe working load, especially for loads not contained in a cube or using stretch wrap to stabilize load
- Place heavy items on the bottom rack(s)
ProLift provides our customers with warehouse design and installation, including pallet racking systems. Contact us today to speak to a warehouse solutions consultant.
