Our Rack Guardian Program
A subscription program that provides preventive and protective measures to help ensure the safe operation of the storage racks you’ve invested in. The program includes an initial inspection, scheduled routine inspections, emergency repairs, and repair product discounts.
Components of a Pallet Rack Inspection
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Visual Components Inspection
A visual inspection of the following components identifies damage, wear, or misalignment of racking systems.
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Upright Frames
Inspected for proper alignment and visible damage of bending, twisting, or dents. Paint chips, corrosion, and rust are also examined as indicators of deeper structural weakness.
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Bracing Supports
Inspected for damage or deformation, and missing or damaged bolts. Connections between bracing supports and upright frames are inspected for security.
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Beams and Load Supports
Inspected for bending, deformities, or cracking. Security of connections is also checked by taking an inventory of all pins and clips and ensuring they are properly fastened.
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Safety Accessories
Examination to be sure column protectors, aisle guards, and row spacers are installed adequately, intact, and not obstructing pathways.
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Anchoring
The connection of pallet racks to the floor or base is inspected for evenness and damage, which may compromise rack stability. The floor is also inspected for evenness, cracks, or deterioration, as an indicator that the installed on it are unsafe.
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Load Distribution
Deflection and sagging of beams and shelves can indicate uneven weight distribution. Pallets are checked for proper position and that they themselves are not overloaded.
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Labels
All pallet racks should be labeled according to capacity levels, safety warnings, and loading instructions. Inspections indicate that the labels are properly positioned and legible.
Rack Capacity Certification
We offer a rack capacity certification, including a professional engineer’s assessment.
The PE will review your current racking system and determine the capacity of the frame, which will depend on nine factors identified by the Rack Manufacturers Institute:
- Average Load to Maximum Load Ratio
- Beam-to-Column Connector Stiffness and Strength
- Beam Stiffness
- Column Stiffness
- Base Plate and Anchorage Detail
- Site Seismicity
- Number of Storage Levels
- Aspect Ratio of the Frame or Height-to-Depth Ratio
- Warehouse or Retail Environment
The rack capacity certification will include placards or stickers for aisles stamped by a professional engineer, showing that the have been certified.
Load Capacity Evaluation
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Dynamic vs. Static Loads
Determination of the capacity in relation to manufacturer’s specifications of maximum weight based on whether the pallet loads are stationary or subject to handling and movement.
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Uniformly Distributed Load
Determination of whether the weight of pallets is evenly distributed along the shelves to avoid concentrated weights that may compromise the industrial racking system.
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Rack Configuration
Varying types of warehouse racking systems have different load capacities per their structural characteristics. Examination of adherence to manufacturer specifications.
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Spacing of Rack Beams
Manufacturer’s specifications of load capacity indicate maximum allowable load weights related to the spacing of the beams. Examination of adherence to manufacturer specifications.
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Safety
Maintaining a margin below the manufacturer’s specification is a common safety factor. Examination of load weight in relation to the specifications.
Request a Quote for Rack Inspection
National Material Handling is proud to serve as your #1 choice for a US warehouse solutions company. To schedule our rack inspection services, please call (317) 886-0660. You may also fill out our online contact form and a member of our team will reach out to you soon.