Rack Audits, Warning Signs Improve Safety Around Pallet Racks Says A Plus Warehouse

LYNN, Mass., Sept. 20, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Pallet racks are an integral storage component of any factory or warehouse, but overloading them can lead to unnecessary workplace accidents. A Plus Warehouse, a leading business-to-business distributor of lockers and materials handling equipment, has released some tips on improving safety when using pallet racks.

"Due to the large size and weight of pallets, safety precautions have to be considered at all times when using pallet racks in your warehouse or plant," said Ed Stairman, president of A Plus Warehouse. "Never overload or exceed the recommended load specifications for a pallet rack system. Our pallet rack shelving has capacities of up to 24,000 pounds per upright and 6,000 pounds per pair of beams. A Plus Warehouse's heavy-duty pallet racks have upright capacity up to 45,000 pounds and beam capacity up to 15,000 pounds."

When loading pallet rack systems with equipment such as forklifts, make sure the rack is intended for machine use. Furthermore, always ensure that only quality pallets are used. Broken or damaged pallets can cause loading and unloading problems, so regular inspection of pallets for broken or fractured planks, protruding nails, and missing support blocks is crucial.

In addition to checking for faulty pallets, pallet racks should be checked periodically for any loose components or damage to the frame. Rack audits should be performed by a qualified inspector familiar with proper design and safety standards to make sure all aspects of the pallet rack system are up to par.

If the pallet rack system is used in areas accessible to the public, highly visible warning signs should be posted to discourage climbing on the racks. Pallet racks are not designed to be stepped on or climbed on, and a slip or fall may result in serious injury.

"Pallet racks are an invaluable storage tool to warehouses and factories, but employee safety should always be considered to avoid injuries and accidents in your workplace," said Stairman.

For more information on pallet racks from A Plus Warehouse, call 800-209-8798 or visit www.APlusWhs.com.

Full press release available here: http://www.apluswhs.com/press-releases/September-20-2011/rack-audits-warning-signs-improve-safety-around-pallet-racks-says-a-plus-warehouse.shtml

About A Plus Warehouse:

A Plus Warehouse is an online business-to-business distributor of quality industrial equipment including many locker selections, plastic lockers, plastic bins, work benches, stainless steel cart selections, storage cabinets, matting, warehouse racks, conveyors and shelving.

SOURCE A Plus Warehouse