Warehouse Racking Installation 5 Aspects To Consider

1) Safety always first

Minimizing any risk within a storage business or distribution center is vital to protect workers and not interrupt operations. For this reason, it is necessary to apply local safety standards during warehouse racking installation and any other equipment.  

Some norms are the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and constant personnel training. However, when it comes to warehouse racking installation, special attention must be paid to the load capacities and maximum height of the racks. This will prolong the service life of the storage equipment and prevent it from collapsing and injuring someone. 

Also, during warehouse racking installation, the quality of the equipment and the materials from which it was constructed should be considered. And once they have been installed, regular inspections should be made to check that they are in good condition, and if necessary, they should be maintained or replaced.

2) Materials or goods stored

For a successful and hassle-free warehouse racking installation, it is necessary to know the type of materials and goods that will be kept in the establishment. This will tell you how many racks are needed, what kind, and how they will be arranged within the property to maximize the use of space. 

Also, the products stored and the stage of the production process will determine the type of warehouse and whether special storage conditions such as a cold room are required. You may, for example, consider the necessity of a roofed area or if these goods can be kept outdoors. 

3) Types of shelves

Usually, all racks use a pallet as a base that supports the storage of boxes and heavy materials. The pallets are then arranged in horizontal rows on several levels to maximize space utilization; the number of groups, in turn, depends on the weight supported by the base material. 

Conventional pallet racks are one of the most popular and stand out for their ability to support heavy goods in little aisles. However, very narrow aisle racking is also available to make the most of limited spaces.

4) Equipment needed

Warehouse racking installation requires special equipment, from forklifts to help lift the shelves to scissor lifts and general construction tools, such as drills, hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches, and more. 

Also, columns must include a base plate and quality anchor bolts. These accessories will help keep the racks upright and firm to withstand any shock from a forklift or even an earthquake. Anchoring the racks will minimize accidents related to collapsing shelves and falling stored products. 

The warehouse floor can vary, as it can be linoleum and vinyl composition tile, but it is usually concrete. In this case, special tools will have to be used to facilitate the placement of storage equipment, such as concrete wedges and impact anchors.

5) Facility conditions

Sometimes, the properties used to set up a storage business or distribution center are not in the best condition. From humidity problems to uneven floors and cracks in the building, it is necessary to evaluate the requirements of the space before warehouse racking installation. 

 It is also essential to consider the height at which the shelves will be concerning the ceiling of the building, as they should not collide with fire safety systems, such as sprinklers, in addition to being at a considerable distance from lamps and electrical installation.