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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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.
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Organisation is crucial in any business, from the smallest shop to the biggest warehouse. Where warehouses, picking and packing are concerned, pallets play a pivotal role, and the way you stack and configure your pallets can make a big difference in the efficiency of your organisation. In this article, we’re going to look at the best, most effective pallet stacking techniques.
Firstly, let’s run through the different pallet stacking styles available to you. There are three main techniques; block, tapered stacks, and the pinwheel format. They all have their benefits but it’s important that you ensure the stacking method is right for the product you are stacking.
Block
Blocking is laying your packages on top of one another in a neat format, where they slot together easily – picture a wider Jenga stack, but without the instability. You can take boxes off the top, but certain boxes may be removed from other levels of the stack providing the balance is correct.
Pinwheel
This consists of layers of four items, placed perpendicular to one another to create the illusion of – you guessed it – a pinwheel. Of course, they can only be stacked in this fashion if they are done so in accordance with the width of the pallet, so be sure to arrange them properly.
Tapered stacking
If the ‘block’ method is similar to how bricks are laid – then the tapered stacking method is a more linear format, with packages stacked on top of each other so that from the side, the small gaps between each package form a uniform, grid-like pattern.
Things to Remember
Make sure that your pallet stacking method suits the material you are stacking – for soft packages, the pinwheel method may be better suited to coping with the uneven surfaces of each package. Standard, cubed boxes will benefit from the tapered method, and rectangular boxes suit the block method as it allows for the boxes to be turned 90 degrees to fit on the pallet.
Don’t let your stacks thin out towards the top – if they start to take a pyramid style shape, try to reorganise to make it neater and save space. Similarly, make sure that any stack is not overhanging the edges of the pallet.
These simple tips can help you stack your pallets in a much more organised manner, reducing the risk of accidents or issues that may result in stock wastage or injuries to personnel.
Rack Storage Systems are proud to provide the highest quality pallet racking for customers around the UK. Our expert team are able to advise you on what would work best for you, and once you’ve chosen your racking system, you’ll benefit from our swift delivery and first-rate customer service. For more information, please get in touch with us today.
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