5 Safety Tips To Consider While Using A Pallet Racking System

The sturdy arms of pallet racking systems have held heavy load since time immemorial in factories and warehouses. However, when it comes to heavyweight commodities, safety is one of the most important aspects to keep in mind. Injuries caused by heavy-load objects — such as cartons, machinery and commodities made from heavy metals or wood — can be fatal to the victim. And so, workers in these industrial settings are often at risk of accidents. In this blog, let’s take a look at some handy tips to follow while handling pallet racking systems at your workplace.

1. PROPER SYSTEM INSTALLATION

Any preventive measure is ultimately superficial if your racking systems have not been installed properly in the first place. Before installing the system, make sure your ground is evenly levelled and has the capacity to hold the upright frames erectly. The upright frames are the pillars of your whole system, without which the pallets cannot be sustained on the racks. Ensure that the frames are steady and firmly fixed to the ground. The best pallet manufacturers ensure that the installation is carried out in an efficient manner.

2. THE WHOLE IS THE SUM OF ITS PARTS…

A number of different components make up your sturdy pallet racking system, and each part plays a significant role in retaining its structure and sustaining it from damage. So, it is important to regularly check each of these components — including the upright frames, beams, pallets, braces, shims, timber and wired decking etc. — for any damage, so that the damaged part may either be repaired or replaced. Also, check for any other repairs, such as protruding nails, broken stringers etc. and get them rectified.

3. LABELLING YOUR PALLETS

All pallets have the definite load-bearing capacity, and stretching them beyond their limits can result in severe damage and injury. While installing your pallet racking system, ask your pallet manufacturers to accurately label each pallet basis the maximum weight that it can bear. Workers can then read this figure specified on the pallet and exercise caution accordingly.

4. PROTECTIVE NETTING SYSTEM

A protective netting system placed on the exterior of your rack can go a long way! Fixing a wired net or steel mesh to cover the external part of the racking system ensures that the goods placed on the pallets do not directly fall to the ground even in case of accidents or calamities.

5. A WELL-MAINTAINED WAREHOUSE

Every worker is a valuable asset, and a well-maintained workplace reflects this perception. A part of caring for your workers is ensuring that the warehouse or factory is well-lit at all times. It should also be tidy and spacious enough for its workers to be accommodated comfortably. A good working environment motivates its occupiers to focus on their work better!

“Better safe than sorry” also applies to your work environment. While using pallet racking, a practical approach towards safety and well-being can go a long way.