Racking carries a great deal of weight, so safe use matters. Most problems are avoidable with sensible design, correct loading and regular checks. These are the basics every warehouse should cover.
Know the safe working load
Each racking bay is designed for a stated load per beam level and per bay. Those limits should be agreed at design stage and shown on a notice fixed to the racking. Never load beyond them, and do not change beam positions without checking the design.
Inspect regularly
Look for bent beams, damaged uprights, missing safety pins and loose fixings. Damage from forklift impact is the most common cause of problems. Damaged components should be reported and assessed promptly, and badly damaged items replaced. The Health and Safety Executive provides useful guidance on warehousing and storage and on workplace transport.
Protect against impact
Column guards and row spacers help protect uprights from forklift damage and keep rows aligned, while barriers and bollards keep traffic away from vulnerable areas. See our column guards and row spacers and safety bollards and barriers pages.
Load pallets correctly
- Use pallets in good condition and place them squarely on the beams.
- Keep heavier pallets on lower levels.
- Do not overhang pallets or stack goods above the designed height.
Train your team
Forklift operators and warehouse staff should understand the racking limits, how to load correctly and how to report damage. A simple written procedure helps everyone follow the same rules.
Need advice?
If you are planning new racking or are unsure about an existing installation, our technical services team can help. Contact us to discuss your site.
Build a simple inspection routine
A regular routine catches small problems before they become serious. Many warehouses combine a quick visual check by operators each day, a more careful look each month and a full inspection at least once a year. Record what you find, mark damaged bays clearly and act on it.
When to call a specialist
Call a specialist if you see a bent or twisted upright, a damaged beam or connector, racking that leans or is out of line, or if loads have changed since the system was designed. Do not keep loading a damaged bay. Our technical services team can advise on assessment, repair and replacement.
For heavier loads see our heavy duty racking page, and contact us if you are planning a new installation.