Maximising the Lifespan of Your Warehouse Racking

Storage equipment is the backbone of any warehouse, playing a vital role in maintaining operations. However, it's also a significant investment, and ensuring the longevity of your racking is key to maximising return on investment. In this article, we explore practical tips to extend the life of your racking and minimise disruptions.

Invest in Ongoing Training for Warehouse Operators:

The primary source of racking damage often stems from impacts caused by Material Handling Equipment (MHE), particularly forklift trucks (FLT). Regular training sessions for warehouse operators ensure they are equipped with the skills to navigate around racking systems without causing damage. Displaying weight load notices at the end of each aisle promotes awareness and prevents overloading, contributing to the overall longevity of the racking.

Guard Your Investments with Racking Protection:

Prevention is indeed cheaper than the cure. Protecting the most vulnerable part of your racking – the uprights – is a cost-effective strategy. Metal or polymer guards, which can be affordable options, act as a shield against impact damage. In contrast, a full upright replacement can be more costly and time-consuming to repair as well as affect the operations of your warehouse. These guards not only protect against impact but also serve as a visual deterrent to MHE operators, enhancing overall safety.

Install Protection Barriers in High-Traffic Zones:

High-traffic areas at the end of racking aisles are prone to collisions from FLT and MHE. Installing impact protection barriers in these zones absorbs and deflects impact, preventing potential damage. Depending on your warehouse's needs, choose the most suitable barrier type for your racking and vehicle types. Consider the level of maintenance required for different materials to keep your barriers visible and your warehouse looking pristine.

Conduct Regular Inspections

Regular and annual racking safety inspections, as recommended by HSE & SEMA guidelines, are essential. Routinely checking for signs of damage or safety issues helps identify problems early on. In bustling warehouses, minor damages may go unnoticed, making frequent inspections crucial for maintaining the health of your racking. Identifying defects promptly enables swift action, contributing to the overall longevity of the storage system.

Swift Repairs to Mitigate Serious Incidents

Adopting a traffic light system for categorising damage (green for monitored, amber for action required soon, and red for immediate action) allows for prioritised repair work. Staying proactive in addressing damages, even those categorised as green or amber helps prevent more severe issues further down the line. Ignoring repair work can lead to larger bills and compromise the structural integrity of the racking so contact A-Z Storage Systems Ltd today for our racking repairs and maintenance services. 

In conclusion, adopting a proactive approach to maintenance, investing in protective measures, and prioritising staff training are essential steps in prolonging the life of your racking. By following these tips, you not only ensure the safety of your warehouse but also protect your valuable investment in storage equipment.

Remember, a well-maintained racking system is not just a storage solution; it's an investment in the long-term efficiency and safety of your operations.

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