For our first query for this month we try to identify racking that has been in use for a while and we explore some of the possibilities. Then we have a question that asks how to conduct a racking inspection and what should be included in the subsequent report.
Beyond Recognition
Q. I am looking to identify some racking and have enclosed a couple of photos for you. The main racking we use, was put in over 20 years ago and our installer no longer trades.
A. It is a bit difficult to be certain as your photos show the general arrangement of the racks rather than the detail but the racking looks like Hi Lo. You should, however, be aware that nowadays there are a number of “lookalike” products available in the market place. These products are very difficult, and in some cases impossible, to differentiate from the original product. Unfortunately there is no guarantee that they will behave in the same way as the original equipment when used either alone or in conjunction with original equipment. You may find some “stamping” on the uprights identifying the manufacturer.
HiLo’s manufacturing base was at Woolwich in London and they supplied their products to distributors who, in turn, supplied to end users.
HiLo merged with another UK company called Planned Storage Systems about 15 years ago. The combined company was subsequently bought by Constructor Dexion. Parts of Constructor Dexion went into administration some years ago and, in the UK, are now represented by Constructor Group UK Ltd. Based in Swindon and they might be able to positively identify the product.
All racking should have a load notice in order that it can be used safely and the following is a link to the SEMA web-site – www.sema.org.uk/guides.asp
The safe working load (SWL) of pallet racking depends upon many factors such as the configuration of the rack, the “duty” of the members, quality of installation, the manufacturer etc. etc. and is normally derived by the racking manufacturer using codes of practice and structural engineering theory augmented by testing.
SEMA does not hold load data for the various suppliers of racking and you should approach the equipment supplier for this data.
In this case the original equipment supplier (OEM) may no longer be trading however you may still be able to obtain SWL data from the company who took over their interests. www.sema.org.uk/profile-members.
If the OEM cannot supply load data there are a number of Consultants who may be able to provide you with load data and/or supply load data plates (www.sema.org.uk/SARI’s). Such a service would normally be chargeable.
What should be included in a Rack Inspection?
Q. I have read the HSE Warehouse and Storage booklet which refers to a “person responsible for racking safety”, who would carry out inspections and keep records.
What would you expect to be recorded on a racking inspection document? and are there any examples anywhere that I could look at?
A. The publications that will do most to help you are the SEMA Guide to the Conduct of Pallet Racking and Shelving Surveys together with the SEMA Code of Practice for the Use of Static Pallet Racking. However while these have some of the information you require it is spread about a bit.
We would suggest the best way of familiarising yourself with the requirements would be to attend one of the SEMA one day courses on ‘Rack Safety Awareness’ which pulls all this together from the point of view of someone who has to carry out regular internal racking inspections. This covers what to look for, how to classify it into red amber or green categories and how to record it. As an individual you can attend one of these courses which are held at the SEMA HQ or alternatively SEMA can bring the course to you at your premises. The latter may be preferable if you have 6 or more people who would benefit from this training and it can then be held on a day that suits your organisation together with a practical session in looking at your own stores and ensuring that the items talked about are being correctly interpreted by those attending.
SEMA is delighted to be working with WLN on the Q and A Column. On the WLN website is a list of previously published columns.
SEMA Technical Enquiries: If you have a query send it to us and we will do our best to have it answered by one of our technical experts.
SEMA runs a one-day safety course on Rack Safety Awareness and Inspection, aimed at end users, giving an in-depth look at the need for inspections, how to conduct an assessment and what actions to take when this is completed.
SEMA Approved Rack Inspectors Qualification: Aimed at professionals who conduct rack surveys as an integral and significant part of their duties.
SEMA runs a USERS Club designed to be of benefit to purchasers and users of storage equipment. Members receive newsletters, access to specialised events and discounted rates on publications and codes of practice.
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