Importance of Rack Safety Inspections

Keeping your warehouse operating safely and at peak efficiency begins with routine inspection and maintenance. International Building codes (IBC) and occupancy permits increasingly include ANSI/RMI (American National Standards Institute / Rack Manufacturers Institute) standards. Ask yourself, what standards are in place after a warehouse is put in operation or what about retrofitted warehouses? Rack uprights are bumped and pushed by material handling equipment, beam elevations or pallet loads are readjusted to fit loaded pallets, and components are modified or aisles narrowed to accommodate inventory. All of that happens as a matter of running a warehouse, but what doesn’t always happen is regularly inspecting pallet rack systems.

The Consequences of Neglected Warehouse Racking

Rack uprights frequently encounter bumps and pushes by material handling equipment. Over time, beam elevations or pallet loads might be readjusted to fit loaded pallets, and components may be modified or aisles narrowed to accommodate inventory. While these adjustments are part of running a warehouse, what often gets overlooked is the regular inspection of pallet rack systems, leading to potential safety risks.

ANSI/RMI MH16.1 Standards for Rack Maintenance

ANSI/RMI MH16.1 sets forth standards for identifying, repairing, or replacing damaged rack and designates that storage rack system maintenance and repair is the rack system operator’s responsibility. Among these include:

• Repair and Replacement of Damaged Components: These shall be replaced by qualified persons following recommended and documented procedures. Repair components must be at least as strong as undamaged components.
• Owner Maintenance: The owner shall maintain the structural integrity of the installed rack system assuring proper operational and maintenance procedures. Regularly inspect for damage and immediately unload the affected area and replace or repair the damaged column(s), beam(s), and other structural components.
• Additions, Alterations, and Reconfigurations: All additions, alterations and reconfigurations should meet the same requirements as the original installation.
• Rack Damage: Upon any visible damage, the pertinent portions of the rack should be unloaded immediately by the user until the damaged portion is repaired or replaced.

The Importance of Regular Safety Inspections

Regular safety inspections are vital to ensuring the structural integrity and safety of warehouse racking systems. These inspections help identify potential issues before they lead to significant damage or accidents, ensuring a safer working environment and continued operational efficiency. Regular inspections not only comply with safety standards but also extend the lifespan of the racking systems, ultimately safeguarding your investment.

How REB Storage Systems Can Help

REB Storage Systems International’s rack repair and rack replacement services comply with all of the standards provided by ANSI/RMI. Fill in the contact form on this page or call 773-252-0400 to schedule an appointment with one of our safety and repair specialists who can perform an audit of your warehouse. You’ll be provided with repair and ongoing protection recommendations. At your request, you’ll receive a proposal and a corresponding scope drawing for these services.

To view more information on our rack safety and repair services, visit our rack safety and rack repair pages.