Mezzanine Floor Risk Assessment: Ensuring a Safe and Compliant Warehouse Environment

Mezzanine Floor Risk Assessment: Ensuring a Safe and Compliant Warehouse Environment

Warehouses are the heart of modern supply chains, serving as hubs for the storage and distribution of goods. With the constant pressure to optimise space, many warehouses turn to mezzanine floors as a solution to make the most of their vertical space. While these elevated platforms offer tremendous advantages in terms of storage capacity and operational efficiency, they also introduce safety concerns that must not be ignored. Conducting a mezzanine floor risk assessment is a critical step in ensuring a safe and compliant warehouse environment. 

The Importance of Mezzanine Floor Risk Assessments 

A mezzanine floor risk assessment is a comprehensive evaluation of potential hazards associated with elevated platforms within a warehouse. The primary goal is to identify these hazards, assess their level of risk, and implement appropriate measures to reduce or eliminate those risks. By conducting a thorough assessment, warehouses can enhance safety, prevent accidents, and ensure compliance with relevant regulations. Read on to learn why conducting a mezzanine floor risk assessment is crucial.

Prevent Accidents and Injuries

Mezzanine floors, due to their elevation, inherently pose risks. An effective mezzanine floor risk assessment identifies necessary mitigating measures for potential accidents such as slips, trips, falls, and objects falling from the mezzanine, which can result in employee injuries and damage to goods.

Regulatory Compliance 

Warehouses are subject to various safety regulations depending on their location and the types of goods they handle. Non-compliance with these regulations can lead to fines, legal liabilities, and reputational damage. A thorough mezzanine floor risk assessment ensures compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements.

Maximising Efficiency 

An effective mezzanine floor risk assessment will not only identify potential hazards, but also provide solutions to mitigate them. By addressing safety concerns and implementing necessary measures, warehouses can create a safer working environment, reduce downtime due to accidents, and maximise operational efficiency.

Carrying out a Mezzanine Floor Risk Assessment 

The mezzanine floor risk assessment should be carried out by the warehouse owner or manager and be a systematic and collaborative process involving the following steps:

Identify Hazards 

Survey the entire mezzanine area to identify potential hazards. These may include uneven surfaces, worn-out anti-slip coatings, missing handrails, or overloaded storage areas.

Assess the Level of Risk 

Once hazards are identified, assess the level of risk associated with each. Consider factors such as the likelihood of an accident occurring and the potential consequences.

Implement Mitigation Measures 

Develop a plan to mitigate or eliminate identified risks. This plan should include specific actions, responsibilities, and timelines for implementation.

Regular Inspections 

Establish a schedule for regular inspections and maintenance of the mezzanine floor and associated safety features. Ensure that inspections are carried out by trained personnel who understand safety requirements.

Employee Training 

Train employees who work on or near the mezzanine floor regarding safety protocols. They should understand how to use safety equipment and be aware of the location of emergency exits.

Key Safety Measures for Mezzanine Floors 

In addition to conducting the mezzanine floor risk assessment and identifying potential hazards, consider these key mezzanine floor safety measures:

Barriers and Safety Gates

Install mezzanine pallet gates around the edges of mezzanine floors. These barriers act as protective enclosures, preventing items or personnel from accidentally falling off the platform.

Stair Rails and Handrails

Ensure that stairs leading to and from the mezzanine have sturdy handrails on both sides to provide stability and support for personnel using the stairs.

Load Capacity Assessment

Regularly assess the load-bearing capacity of the mezzanine floor to ensure it can safely support the weight of stored items and equipment.

Proper Lighting

Adequate lighting is essential to prevent accidents. Ensure that all areas of the mezzanine floor are well-lit.

Anti-Slip Surfaces

Consider using anti-slip coatings or materials on the mezzanine floor surface, especially in areas prone to spills or moisture.

Fire Safety

Implement fire safety measures, including accessible fire extinguishers, clearly marked exit signage, and well-defined evacuation routes.

Compliance with Regulations

Stay updated on local, national, and industry-specific safety regulations to ensure ongoing compliance.

Prioritising mezzanine floor safety by carrying out a mezzanine floor risk assessment, allows warehouses to provide a work environment that promotes employee well-being, minimises accidents, and maximises operational efficiency. Safety is an ongoing commitment, and regular assessments and maintenance are key to long-term safety and success in warehouse operations.
Contact us to find out more about how to keep your warehouse team safe, or browse our range of mezzanine flooring.

5 Benefits of Mesh Cages in The Warehouse

5 Benefits of Mesh Cages in The Warehouse

If you’re looking for a versatile and secure storage solution for high value or fragile items in your warehouse, mesh cages offer a number of advantages over other types of storage. Find out how mesh security cages can be used to store products safely, in these top 5 benefits of mesh cages in the warehouse.

1. Secure Valuable Stock

One big benefit of mesh cages is that they provide an additional level of security by preventing unauthorised access to stored products. Storing your stock in a wire mesh cage can help protect valuable or sensitive items from theft, tampering or unauthorised handling.

The visible presence of steel mesh storage cages can act as a deterrent to potential intruders or unauthorised personnel. It sends a clear message that the stored items are protected and that access is restricted.

2. Keep Goods Visible

Mesh cages allow for easy visibility of the contents inside. This makes it simple for warehouse personnel to identify and locate specific products without the need to open or move the cages. 

Mesh cages and mesh partitioning can also help with organisation, by segregating different types of products so you always know exactly where everything is. 

Good visibility also reduces the risk of misplacement or loss of goods. One of the biggest benefits of mesh storage in the warehouse is their suitability for inventory management, allowing for easy visual inspection of the contents without the need to open the cage.

3. Protect Stock From Excessive Movement and Handling

Mesh cages are typically made from robust materials like steel, which makes them durable and capable of withstanding the rigours of a warehouse environment, including heavy loads and frequent handling.

The benefits of mesh cages equipped with wheels or casters are that they allow for easy mobility within the warehouse, make it simpler to move products to and from different areas of the warehouse, and reduce the need to lift and handle stock.

4. Compliance With Storage Requirements

In some industries, there are regulatory requirements for the storage of certain products. Mesh cages often have benefits over other types of storage, as they can be designed to meet these compliance standards, ensuring that stored items are stored correctly and safely.

For example, mesh cages allow for proper ventilation, which is essential for storing certain types of products, such as chemicals, food items and electronics. This helps to prevent the buildup of moisture and ensures that the stored goods remain in good condition.

5. Fit More Goods into The Space

Another benefit of mesh cages in the warehouse is that they can easily be customised to fit specific storage needs, so you can optimise the space according to your own requirements. We supply mesh cages and partitions in a variety of sizes and configurations, and you can add shelves, dividers, or other accessories to optimise storage space for different types of products.

Mesh cages can be stacked or nested when not in use, saving valuable floor space in the warehouse. This is particularly useful in smaller or crowded storage areas.

Find Out More and Get a Quote

At Rack Storage, we supply high-quality mesh cages and mesh partitioning. Contact us to discuss your requirements and get a quote. 

What Type of Storage Cage Is Best for Your Warehouse?

What Type of Storage Cage Is Best for Your Warehouse?

Our cages offer many advantages in a warehouse or industrial setting. But which type should you choose? There are several different storage cage options for warehouses and stockrooms, and the best product will depend on the layout of your space, the products you are storing and any special requirements you have, such as the flexibility to reconfigure your storage space or a need for high security. 

Secure Metal Cage Storage, for Valuable Stock

This cage storage option provides a secure environment for your stock. Durable, metal security cages are designed to protect high-value or sensitive items. They often come with locking mechanisms and are used to secure items like high-value products, expensive tools, or confidential documents. The enclosed structure can be fitted with various lock options, and mesh sizes to deter potential thieves.

Modular Cage Storage, for Flexible Configuration

Modular storage cages are built using standardised components that can be easily assembled and disassembled. The modular design allows for quick adjustments and reconfigurations without the need for extensive construction or modifications. You can configure the cages to match the size and shape of your available space and adapt them to accommodate different types of products or items with varying dimensions. As your storage needs evolve, modular storage cages can be adjusted accordingly.

Outdoor Cage Storage, for Weather-Resistant Durability

Outdoor cage storage is well-suited for storing large or bulky items that may not easily fit within indoor storage facilities. This may include items like construction materials, heavy machinery, oversized equipment or landscaping supplies. It can also act as overflow storage, with outdoor modular security cages offering the flexibility you need to expand outdoors when required. While not as secure as indoor storage, outdoor cage storage can shield items from rain, snow, and sunlight, reducing the risk of weather-related damage.

Wire Mesh Cage Storage, Visibility and Ventilation 

Wire mesh cages are versatile and commonly used for storing a wide range of items, from small parts to larger products. They allow for good visibility of the contents, and proper ventilation.

Wire mesh partitioning allows for visibility of the contents within an enclosed area. This is valuable for inventory management, equipment monitoring, and visual inspection of stored items without the need to open or enter the partition. Unlike solid walls, wire mesh partitions provide good airflow and ventilation while maintaining a physical barrier. This can be essential in areas where temperature regulation or air quality control is important.

So Which Cage Storage Solution Should You Choose?

If you’re still not sure which type of storage cage is right for your needs, the experts at Rack Storage will be happy to help. You can download our storage cage brochures to find out more about the products we offer or contact us with any questions you may have. With over 35 years of experience in warehouse storage solutions, we are well-placed to help you find the right product for your individual needs.

What Are Mezzanine Pallet Gates? Edge Protection for Mezzanine Floors

What Are Mezzanine Pallet Gates? Edge Protection for Mezzanine Floors

Mezzanine floors offer valuable additional space for storage, offices, or production areas within a warehouse or industrial facility. However, ensuring the safety of personnel and the protection of goods on these elevated platforms is an absolute priority. That’s where mezzanine pallet gates are so vital. In this blog, we will explore the function of mezzanine pallet gates and how they provide essential edge protection for mezzanine floors, keeping both workers and stored items safe.

Understanding Mezzanine Pallet Gates

Mezzanine pallet gates, also known as mezzanine gates or mezzanine safety gates, are specialised barriers designed to prevent falls from the edges of mezzanine floors while allowing easy and efficient movement of goods using forklifts, pallet jacks, or other material handling equipment. These gates provide a secure access point when loading or unloading materials onto the elevated platform.

Function and Benefits

Enhanced Safety

Mezzanine pallet gates act as physical barriers that prevent accidental falls from mezzanine floors, reducing the risk of injuries and ensuring the safety of workers. By providing a controlled access point, these pallet safety gates help to create a secure working environment.

Versatile Design

Mezzanine gates are available in various configurations to suit different requirements. Swing gates, sliding gates, and pivot gates are among the commonly used designs. Each type offers unique benefits, such as maximising floor space, accommodating large loads, or facilitating one-way traffic flow.

Efficient Material Handling

Mezzanine pallet gates enable seamless movement of goods between the mezzanine floor and ground level. They allow forklifts or pallet jacks to safely load or unload pallets, reducing the time and effort required for manual handling. This streamlined process also contributes to increased productivity.

Mezzanine Pallet Gate Features

Dual-Gate System: Mezzanine gates typically employ a dual-gate system, ensuring that one gate is always in the closed position while the other is open. This configuration provides a secure barrier at all times, eliminating the possibility of an unprotected edge.

Counterbalanced Design: Mezzanine gates are designed with counterweights or springs, allowing for smooth and effortless operation. These mechanisms ensure that gates automatically return to their closed position after use, maintaining edge protection at all times when not in use.

Safety Regulations and Compliance

To maintain workplace safety, it is crucial to adhere to relevant safety regulations and guidelines. Here are some key considerations when implementing mezzanine pallet gates:

Regulatory Standards

Different countries have specific safety regulations and standards for mezzanine floors and edge protection. It is essential to consult local regulations, such as those provided by the HSE (Health and Safety Executive) in the UK, to ensure compliance.

Load Capacity

Mezzanine gates should be designed and installed to withstand the intended loads and forces. Manufacturers provide load capacity ratings for their gate systems, so it is important to consider these specifications when selecting and installing your new gates.

Regular Inspections and Maintenance

Periodic inspections and maintenance routines are essential to ensure the continued effectiveness and safe operation of mezzanine pallet gates. Regularly checking gate mechanisms, hinges, latches, and overall structural integrity is necessary to identify and address any potential issues as quickly as possible.

Mezzanine pallet gates play a vital role in providing edge protection and ensuring the safety of workers and goods on mezzanine floors. By combining enhanced safety features with efficient material handling, these gates contribute to a secure and productive working environment. Adhering to safety regulations and conducting regular inspections will help maintain the effectiveness and reliability of mezzanine gates, ensuring the ongoing safety of everyone involved. 


If you would like to find out more about our Mezzanine flooring, and how we keep warehouse teams safe please contact us or get a quote today.

Warehouse space management: 5 ways to optimise capacity

Warehouse Space Management: 5 Ways to Optimise Capacity

Having a warehouse that uses available space efficiently is vital for maximising productivity and growing your business. When planning your warehouse space management, small changes can help you to save on rent by storing more in the space you have.

If you are a warehouse owner or manager seeking to enhance your warehouse space and increase profit, read on for the 5 top tips from Rack Storage Solutions.

1. Calculate your warehouse space utilisation

Getting clear on how much space you use when warehouse capacity planning can help identify inefficiencies. From here you can create a logical sequence that boosts productivity and determine the next steps.

  • Start by multiplying the square footage of usable storage space (disregarding office space, toilets and non-usable space) by the height of your warehouse to work out your total warehouse space size.
  • To work out your actual storage cube size, multiply the total capacity of each rack by total number. This is your storage capacity, based on your current setup.
  • Divide your current storage capacity by your total warehouse size in cubic feet and multiply by 100. The number you get is your potential storage area. Between 22-27% is optimal so there is room for picking, loading and unloading efficiently; lower than 22% means improvements could be made.

2. Reduce aisle width when warehouse capacity planning

If you have identified that your storage area isn’t being utilised to its full capacity, an easy step to boost warehouse storage space is to reduce aisle width.

Decreasing aisle width to between 5-8 feet within the racking area can save up to 20% on space. Calculate how much space is needed for forklifts and compare this to your current aisle space. However, consider the expense of wire guidance in a very narrow
aisle situation.

3. Increase vertical storage in your warehouse space

An easy way to increase your warehouse storage capacity is through using the vertical space. Using your calculations, look at your warehouse height and analyse how well your racking system is working. Can any lower-selling inventory be moved higher to free up space for best-sellers?

Check to see if a new warehouse storage system may be more efficient, keeping in mind how the business might develop in the future. Or can you add to your current system?

Consulting a structural engineer can help prevent any pitfalls of base plates or racking uprights being the wrong size.

Adding mezzanine flooring and walkways can maximise inventory storage, particularly in warehouse spaces where picking and order preparation tasks are involved. Make sure you comply with building safety regulations.

4. Place your beams strategically

When looking at your warehouse space management, make sure your beam heights are working optimally for you. Sometimes when products are reassigned to different places, the container is no longer an ideal fit.

Resetting your beam heights to allow for only the minimum required space between the product and bottom of the rack beam can create extra storage capacity.

If you have a lot of extra space, additional beam levels can transform your warehouse capacity.

5. Reduce congestion at inbound and outbound areas

Warehouse capacity planning isn’t just about increasing storage size. Warehouse managers and business owners know the areas where incoming products are delivered and picked goods are loaded are critical to the smooth running of operations. These spaces have high footfalls and equipment, which can be chaotic.

Rather than making these areas as small as possible, a smart way that saves time and avoids costly delays is to resize to improve the flow of goods and people. Making them run more smoothly can increase yields from your warehouse space.

Make the most of your capacity, with Rack Storage

Optimising your warehouse capacity when planning is essential to increasing productivity without the need for expansion. By getting clear on your current storage capacity, reducing aisle width, increasing vertical storage, placing your beams optimally and decreasing congestion in critical areas, you can use your space fully to improve your bottom line.

There is no one size fits all solution for warehouse space management. At Rack Storage, we’re experts at warehouse storage solutions to get the best out of your unique space.

Contact us on 01707 394 847 or email sales@rackstorage.co.uk today.

Racking Inspections: A Complete Guide To Warehouse Racking Safety

Racking Inspections: A Complete Guide To Warehouse Racking Safety

If you use pallet racking in your warehouse, you need to be aware of the health and safety regulations that are subject to inspection. Our complete racking inspections guide will take you through everything you need to know to keep your warehouse safe and pass your pallet racking safety inspection.

What does the law say about racking inspections?

Warehouse racking regulations include the following:

The 1998 Law – Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) states that all racking equipment comes under the legislation of heavy work equipment which, “must be inspected and maintained on a regular basis”.

In 2015, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Construction, Design and Management Regulations, made it a legal responsibility for warehouse owners to ensure that safety regulations are met and that all workers within a warehouse are competent.

HSE Pallet Racking Regulation Document

If you are feeling overwhelmed about how to keep your warehouse safe and legal, the HSE provide guideline booklets for each safety regulation. The HSG76 Warehouse and storage: A guide to health and safety booklet contains the safety information that specifically relates to pallet racking safety in a warehouse. 

Every warehouse manager should familiarise themselves with the HSE guidelines.

What happens during a warehouse racking inspection?

Racking inspections should be carried out by a qualified SARI (SEMA-Approved Racking Inspector) or a Technically Competent Person at least once a year.

The steps taken during a warehouse safety inspection are:

  • The SEMA inspector will carry out a visual inspection from the warehouse floor. 
  • The inspector will ask to see evidence of health and safety documentation such as daily/weekly checks carried out by the designated person in charge of racking safety in your warehouse. 
  • A full warehouse inspection report with analysis of any damage or concerns will be sent after the inspection is complete. 

How to pass a pallet racking inspection

Pallet racking is a safe and versatile warehouse storage choice but make sure you only purchase racking equipment from trusted professionals. Trained specialists, such as the experts at Rack Storage Systems, can guide you in the planning, installation, and maintenance of your warehouse storage system. 

When your pallet racking is being installed or maintained, make sure that important safety considerations are followed, such as how racking is secured to the floor. It is the legal responsibility of the warehouse owner to check the credentials of any contractor or worker within their warehouse.

Appoint a designated rack safety person in your warehouse who carries out regular internal inspections based on the HSE pallet racking safety guidelines. All staff should be trained on how to report safety concerns or damage. 

If your whole team is aware of warehouse health and safety regulations and you carry out regular internal warehouse inspections, you should have no problem passing your pallet racking safety inspection.

High-quality pallet racking from Rack Storage

At Rack Storage, our pallet racking systems are manufactured to a standard you can trust. Discover our high-quality new and used pallet racking systems for your warehouse and get a quote today.

How Much is Your Pallet Racking Worth?

How Much is Your Pallet Racking Worth?

If you are considering selling your warehouse storage equipment but are unsure what your pallet racking could be worth, our guide is here to help.

Why sell your pallet racking?

The most common reasons for selling pallet racking are relocation, updating or developing current structures, warehouse closure or simply for profit. No matter the reason, everyone wants the best return when selling on their pallet racking, so it’s important to know how best to sell unwanted warehouse storage equipment. Here’s an insight into helping you understand how much your pallet racking is worth.

What do we look for when buying pallet racking?

Rack Storage are experts in the field of warehouse storage equipment. As major buyers of all pallet racking, shelving systems and mezzanine floors, we have a unique insight into the market and expected values.

Good quality, well-looked-after equipment can always find a new home. Here at Rack, we are always on the lookout for well-maintained used racking and shelving.

How to maximise the value of your pallet racking

The key to the best return when selling your pallet racking is looking after it well. Racking systems should be thoroughly inspected before being dismantled carefully and stored appropriately in preparation for sale. During any transportation, the pallet racking should be stored securely to ensure it remains in the best condition during transit.

Our experienced team can advise on how to look after your pallet racking to maximise its value. If you choose to sell your unwanted storage equipment to Rack Storage, you can trust in our qualified dismantling team to make the entire process easy and stress-free.

Tips on how to start selling your pallet racking

The first step to take when considering selling your pallet racking is to contact a trusted and experienced buyer, such as Rack, for a full appraisal of your warehouse system.

Pallet racking pricing is dependent on several factors such as the original cost, the product manufacturer and quality of steel. The structure and ease of installation can influence value as well as safety features built into the design. Wear and tear or any damage must then be considered, with the best-maintained equipment commanding higher values.

New vs used pallet racking

Used pallet racking pricing means this can be a fantastic way to save on initial set-up expenditure. Not only does used equipment provide an affordable alternative to new warehouse storage equipment, but reusing and recycling is environmentally conscious.

Buying new pallet racking is more expensive but offers the benefit of up-to-date storage systems which can be designed specifically to meet the needs of your warehouse.

The biggest risk when buying used versus new pallet racking is not knowing the history of the equipment and any potential damage that could result in a safety issue. That’s why it is essential to buy used racking from a trusted retailer. Rack’s quality guarantee gives our customers the peace of mind that they will always receive the highest quality products and services.

Ask the experts

Now that you’ve got a better understanding into how much your pallet racking is worth, our Rack Storage experts are here to take the stress out of selling your pallet racking. Our experienced dismantling team are fully covered and provide an exceptional service in breaking down and removing your unwanted warehouse equipment. Our specialist staff will be with you every step of the way and all RAMs are available on request.

Get in touch to find out how we can help you make money from your used pallet racking.

We pay top prices for unwanted pallet racking!

Types of Warehouse Storage Systems

Types of Warehouse Storage Systems

With warehouse space, it’s not about what you’ve got: it’s about how you use it. The different types of warehouse storage systems can help you to get the most out of your warehouse space, helping to create a functional, organised and efficient environment with optimal throughput. Here we’ll take a look at types of warehouse storage systems, and the benefits of the different options.

Most common types of warehouse storage systems

Pallet Racking

Does your stock mostly consist of items on pallets? Pallet racking is likely to be the most efficient storage system for your warehouse.

  • Benefits:
  • Main features:
    • Designed to store pallets 

Static shelving

A traditional solution, static industrial shelving will always be a mainstay of warehouse storage. 

  • Benefits:
    • A cost-effective storage solution
    • Can be heavy-duty, for weightier products
  • Main features:
    • Stays in one place all the time
    • Suitable for products picked by hand, rather than by forklift

Mobile Shelving

With a flexible and easily adjustable configuration, mobile shelving is a useful option if space is at a premium. Also known as roller racking, it allows you to store a large number of products in a high-density system, while still having easy access to what you need, when you need it.

  • Benefits: 
    • Space-saving, allowing you to store a high number of items in a small space
    • No need for fixed aisles – configure your shelving according to your need
    • Flexible
  • Main features:
    • Mobile shelves are attached to a rail system, so you can move them easily whenever you need to.
    • Suitable for manually picked items, rather than forklifts or other machinery
    • Suitable for medium loads (typically 75kg per shelf)

Mezzanine flooring

If you have the height in your warehouse to install an additional mezzanine floor, you can maximise the space available. Mezzanine flooring can be used for extra storage, or as an office space.

  • Benefits:
    • Get the most out of your vertical space – you could increase your working area by as much as 100%
    • Can be delivered ready to use
    • Available new or used
  • Main features:
    • An additional level is constructed as an intermediate space, halfway up the warehouse building
    • Mezzanine flooring isn’t integral to the structure of the building so it can be dismantled

Other types of warehouse storage systems

  • Automated storage systems make use of computers and warehouse robots to do the picking, rather than relying on humans.
  • Drive-in racking involves storing multiple pallets back to back, loaded using a forklift. Because this makes the items that were loaded in first inaccessible, it works best if you are storing a large quantity of the same product.
  • Spinlock storage uses a horizontal carousel for efficient picking: the picker can stand in one place and wait for the item to come to them as the carousel rotates.  

What warehouse storage system should you choose?

Every warehouse is different, so your ideal storage system will depend on a few factors.

These factors include:

  • the size, type and weight of the products you store
  • how frequently you need to access them
  • whether or not you need to use machinery such as forklifts
  • how much vertical space you have available

Here at Rack Storage, we are experts in warehouse storage solutions. We’ll be happy to advise you if you have any questions about which type of warehouse storage system will suit you best.

Ask the experts

If you have any questions about warehouse storage systems, just get in touch. Call us on 01707 394 847 for professional advice, or fill in our contact form

How to Secure Pallet Racking to the Floor

How to Secure Pallet Racking to the Floor

Pallet racking is a popular choice in warehouses and other industrial settings, thanks to its vertical storage capacity, heavy-duty strength and space-saving capabilities. But it’s vital that your pallet racking installation is carried out safely and correctly. Here we’ll explore the benefits of securing pallet racking to the floor, and explain the best methods to keep your pallet racks fixed in place.

Securing your pallet racking to the floor

Pallet racks are tall, vertical structures bearing extremely heavy and bulky loads. This means they pose a risk of injury and even death, if they are not secured in place. There’s also a risk of damage to your warehouse stock if it falls from an unsecured rack. 

Pallet rack anchor requirements

Securing your pallet racking is not just the responsible thing to do; it’s also enshrined in a number of health and safety laws. In the UK, these include (but are not limited to) the following legislation: 

  • Health and Safety at Work Act (1974)
  • Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations (1992)
  • Work at Height Regulations (2005)

The Health and Safety Executive have also produced a comprehensive guideline called Warehousing and storage: A guide to health and safety, which includes specifications for safe racking installation. This states that:

  • Racking and industrial shelving must be securely fixed to the floor where necessary 
  • Free-standing racking must not be used if forklift trucks, order pickers or other mechanical handling equipment is in operation (so you must secure the pallet racking to the floor)
  • Racking system installation and maintenance must be carried out according to the manufacturer’s instructions

Factors to consider when deciding how to secure your pallet racking 

Pallet racking can be fixed to the floor, or to a wall. In some cases, different racks can also be secured to each other, if they are positioned back-to-back. The method that you use to secure your pallet racking to will depend on a number of factors, including:

  • The type of pallet racking you’re using
  • The amount of space required in the aisles
  • Whether you are using mechanical handling equipment
  • The height-to-base-width ratio of your racks
  • The material your floors are made of

You should find all the information you need in the manufacturer’s instructions and in the relevant HSE Warehousing and storage legislation.

Tips on securing pallet racking to the floor 

Pallet racking is secured to the floor using metal anchors and concrete slabs. Here are some tips for planning your pallet racking installation and fixing it to the floor:

  • Take care to design your warehouse layout taking into account all the space you will need in the aisles. Because your racking will be fixed to the floor, it’s important to get this right as it will be difficult to alter at a later date.
  • In addition to space for mechanical handling equipment, also take into account whether you will need safety features such as guard rails
  • Decide on the type of anchors you will use to secure your racking. Wedge anchors and concrete strike anchors are two options to consider. 
  • Carefully study the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure that you comply with any weight restrictions.

Ask the experts

Rack Storage are pallet racking specialists. Our qualified operatives answer any questions you may have. Speak to us on 01707 394 847 or email our team at sales@rackstorage.co.uk today.

How to Increase Storage Capacity in Your Warehouse at Christmas

How to Increase Storage Capacity in Your Warehouse at Christmas

The seasonal period is distinctive in many ways: the lights, the excitement in the air, that first sip from a seasonal coffee cup. But for warehouses and distribution centres, Christmas is a logistical challenge like no other.

Stepping up to meet increased demand and coping with the seasonal surge in stock inventory can be both stressful and costly – but we’re here to help you stay one step ahead with these tips for maximising your warehouse space in the run-up to Christmas. 

Benefits of preparing for the holiday season

The perks of good preparation outweigh the effort involved – it will help you to stay organised during busy periods. On the other hand, being unprepared for the Christmas rush is a mistake you can’t afford to make: it’s a predictable peak that your competitors will have covered. 

That predictability is a gift – it means you can review previous years and analyse the best ways to gear up for the rush. By making sure your warehouse is ready and organised well in advance, your forward planning should result in increased productivity, efficiency and profitability.

Review how much stock you need

The first step to optimising your storage capacity is to know how much space you are likely to need. You can do this by reviewing your inventory from previous festive peaks, as well as looking at this year’s buying trends. This should enable you to stock up on the most popular goods to ensure that the shelves won’t be bare due to unexpected demand – but also to avoid taking up unnecessary space with products that won’t sell.

Improve how you utilise your warehouse space 

Once you know how much space you need, it’s time to get creative with your storage solutions. There are several cost-effective methods to take advantage of your space, especially the vertical wall space that can often go to waste, including:

  1. mezzanine floors
  2. pallet racking
  3. vertical shelving

Mezzanine flooring 

Mezzanine flooring – the creation of an additional level suspended above your ground floor – is a cost-effective way to increase your storage space without extending your warehouse building. Cheaper than putting in a traditional permanent floor and ideal for seasonal peaks, it can be used to house additional inventory (providing as much as twice the amount of space you would have otherwise) or as office space for staff.

Read more about mezzanine flooring

Pallet racking

Pallet racking is a systematic way to organise your inventory that makes use of vertical space. It’s a good move for your warehouse if you already store products on pallets and have access to forklifts to move them around.

Read more about pallet racking

Vertical shelving 

Make the most of the height in your warehouse with vertical shelving. There are a variety of different shelving units available:

Read more about our industrial shelving options

Ask the experts

At Rack Storage, we’re experts at getting the best out of your warehouse space. Contact us on 01707 394 847 or email sales@rackstorage.co.uk today.

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