PALLET RACK PROTECTION

DESCRIPTION

Pallet rack protection is essential for keeping warehouse shelving systems safe from damage caused by forklifts, pallet jacks, and general wear and tear.

These protective measures help maintain the structural integrity of racks, reducing risks to employees and inventory. Here are some common pallet rack protection methods:

Rack Guards

  • Column Guards: Installed at the base of rack columns to protect them from impacts. These guards can be bolted to the floor or wrapped around the column. They’re often made from heavy-duty steel.
  • End Guards: Installed at the end of rack rows to protect them from side impacts by forklifts or other equipment.
  • Frame Guards: Placed along the sides of racks to prevent damage to frames or braces. They’re especially useful for racks in high-traffic areas.

 Rack Protectors

  • Rack Protectors: Horizontal or vertical barriers designed to prevent damage from collisions along the full length of the rack. They’re typically anchored to the ground and can absorb impact.
  • Corner Guards: Used on rack corners or end frames where they’re most vulnerable to impacts from forklifts turning.

Mesh Decking

  • Wire Mesh Decking: A durable alternative to traditional wooden decks that can handle heavy loads and minimize risk in case of a fire since they allow water from sprinklers to pass through.

 Safety Nets and Back Panels

  • Safety Nets: Attached to the back or sides of racks to prevent items from falling. They can be custom-sized for different types of racks.
  • Back Panels: Metal or mesh back panels keep inventory from falling backward off the shelves, ideal in warehouses where racks are placed against walls or other shelving.

Floor-Mounted Barriers

  • Guardrails and Bollards: Heavy-duty rails and posts installed around racks to prevent forklifts or equipment from striking the racks. Bollards are particularly effective at protecting corners and ends.

Aisle Shielding

  • Aisle Guards: Barriers installed along the sides of aisles to protect racks as forklifts move in and out of aisles. These are essential for narrow-aisle or high-traffic areas.

Signage and Floor Markings

  • Warning Signs and Labels: Clearly indicate rack weight limits, forklift driving instructions, and safety reminders.
  • Floor Tape or Painted Lines: Mark the safe distance or pathway around the racks to guide forklift operators.

Each of these protective measures has specific benefits depending on the layout, traffic, and types of goods stored. Combining several of these strategies usually offers the best protection for both racks and warehouse employees.