Rack Checklists

Condensed and reprinted with permission from Steel King’s Pallet Rack Online User’s Manual.

Assembly ChecklistStorage racks should be assembled only by personnel trained in proper rack assembly procedures.Rack structures must be installed plumb, level and square.The rack structure should be assembled and used only as shown on the supplier’s assembly drawings. Changing the configuration or adjusting storage levels may adversely affect capacity and reduce structural integrity.Nut and bolt connections must be tightened snug and secure. Do not tighten to the point of crushing tubular components.Beam safety locks help keep load beams on boltless connections from dislodging. They must be fully engaged through the beam connector and upright column connector holes.Every column of each rack frame must be anchored to an adequate concrete floor. Obtain floor slab characteristics from the building architect before specifying the racks so the rack supplier can design accordingly.Do not install racks outdoors unless they’re designed for it. Outdoor usage requires environmental considerations, such as wind and snow loads, not normally considered in rack design.Use caution when intermingling new and existing parts. Even components produced by the same supplier can vary in design.Install capacity plates identifying the rack’s design characteristics, including load weight, size and rack configuration. Signs should be prominently located for maximum visibility and permanently affixed to the structure.Never climb on racks during or after assembly.Allow adequate aisle spacing to reduce the danger of collisions between lifting equipment and rack structures.Maintain adequate clearances around loads as dictated by local fire codes. Too-tight clearances increase fire risk, decrease handling speed and increase the risk of rack and load damage.Install good lighting in every rack aisle to improve efficiency, prevent accidents and reduce damage to the rack structure.Install column protectors at aisle-facing rack columns and guard rails at rack row ends as a visual and physical barrier against impacts.Do not cut, weld or otherwise modify any componentOperational & Maintenance ChecklistUse only pallets in good condition. Broken or cracked boards, protruding nails and other deficiencies can cause loads to fall from racks, or cause dynamic rack jams, rendering them unusable.Inspect (at least annually) and maintain the rack system. Look for the following: All hardware, including anchors, properly tightenedAll beam safety locks operational and fully engagedAll racks plumb, level and squareNo dents, kinks or otherwise damaged componentsLoad sizes and weights match original specificationsReplace damaged or missing beam safety locks immediately. Do not use beams without safety locks.Train lift truck operators and maintain the equipment they use in conjunction with the storage racks. Minimizing contact between racks and handling equipment is the most important factor in rack longevity.Do not overload any rack component, bay or system.Ensure that fork trucks are equipped to protect operators from crushing against storage rack, loads and other objects.Ensure that fork trucks are equipped to protect operators from falls. Platforms upon which operators stand must be approved by the lift equipment manufacturer and OSHA. Operators should be restrained or otherwise protected from falls.