Pallet racking is available in various styles and sizes.

It is a handling storage system designed to store materials on pallets in horizontal rows with multiple levels.

You usually see fork lift trucks stacking and moving the loaded pallets. Since the second world war Pallet racking has been essential and present in most warehouses. To this day you can see pallet racking in most manufacturing facilities, retail centres and storage and distribution centres. Correct planning and use of Pallet racking can increase your square footage of storage space tenfold.

The idea of safe and effective use of pallet racking comes down to simple awareness and maintenance of  health and safety.

The Pallet Loads.

The dimensions and weight distribution are critical. Get this wrong and and you could effect the whole configuration of the racking and its operational purpose. What can affect this? Well for example it could be pallet overhang, misplacement of racking or load stability. So the key is always be aware to avoid accidents.

The majority of pallets are designed for carrying of storage of particular products. For example a pallet designed carriage of cereal boxes is a different to one designed for goods such as large cans of paint.

Safe pallet use:

• Damaged pallets should be removed.

• Every pallet should be inspected before each use to ensure it is safe.

• Empty pallets should be handled with respect. To avoid damage.

• Correct fork lift trucks should be used for correct pallet size.

• Take care when using strapping to secure loads to pallets, as deck boards can be pulled from the bearers.

• To avoid damage to pallets and to lift palletised loads safely, the forks of a handling device should extend into the pallet to at least 3/4 of the pallet depth.

• Never climb on racks during or after assembly. Storage racks are not designed to be stepped on or climbed on.

• Use only quality pallets that are not damaged.

As well as pallet awareness, all workers should be trained in the knowledge of general health and safety, keep aisles between racking free with no obstructions. General warehouse up keep avoids slips and falls but ensures vehicle safety. Loading or misaligned pallets can damage the frame structure to the point of collapse. Always respect the racking!

Here at monarch shelving we provided a large range of pallet racking for all industries. To fit all size pallets and storage needs. Contact us for advice.