Pallet Rack Safety Subscription:

Components of a Pallet Rack Inspection

Visual Components Inspection

A visual inspection of the following components identifies damage, wear, or misalignment of racking systems. 

Upright Frames – Inspected for proper alignment and visible damage of bending, twisting, or dents. Paint chips, corrosion, and rust are also examined as indicators of deeper structural weakness. 

Bracing Supports – Inspected for damage or deformation, and missing or damaged bolts. Connections between bracing supports and upright frames are inspected for security. 

Beams and Load Supports – Inspected for bending, deformities, or cracking. Security of connections is also checked by taking an inventory of all pins and clips and ensuring they are properly fastened. 

Safety Accessories – Examination to be sure column protectors, aisle guards, and row spacers are installed adequately, intact, and not obstructing pathways. 

Anchoring – The connection of pallet racks to the floor or base is inspected for evenness and damage, which may compromise rack stability.  The floor is also inspected for evenness, cracks, or deterioration, as an indicator that the pallet racks installed on it are unsafe. 

Load Distribution – Deflection and sagging of beams and shelves can indicate uneven weight distribution.  Pallets are checked for proper position and that they themselves are not overloaded. 

Labels – All pallet racks should be labeled according to capacity levels, safety warnings, and loading instructions. Inspections indicate that the labels are properly positioned and legible. 

Load Capacity Evaluation

Dynamic vs. Static Loads – Determination of the capacity in relation to manufacturer’s specifications of maximum weight based on whether the pallet loads are stationary or subject to handling and movement.

Uniformly Distributed Load – Determination if the weight of pallets is evenly distributed along the shelves to avoid concentrated weights that may compromise the racking system. 

Rack Configuration – Varying types of racking systems have different load capacities per their structural characteristics. Examination of adherence to manufacturer specifications.

Spacing of Rack Beams – Manufacturer’s specifications of load capacity indicate maximum allowable load weights related to the spacing of the beams. Examination of adherence to manufacturer specifications. 

Safety – Maintaining a margin below the manufacturer’s specification is a common safety factor. Examination of load weight in relation to the specifications.