Our first question this month asks about the correct number of shims to use and our second query is about working under racking.
Racking Shims
Q. We have the correct shims to put under the feet but how many shims can you stack on top of each other? Is there a limit? In a couple of the areas the gap is around 15-20mm between the floor and the foot. We were planning on using 5,6 or 7 x 3mm shims to level the frame depending on the gap but wondered if this is acceptable and if they need to be welded together. Each frame has 2 bolts in each foot (4 per frame) as standard. The bolts are 12mm x 120mm.
Do the shims need to alternate if we are stacking them or can they be stacked in the same orientation?
A. Firstly, I presume that your supplier has provided you with instructions for the correct installation of this racking as incorrect installation can make the racking unsafe. It is for this reason that SEMA recommends that racking should be installed by SEIRS trained installers. You can find more information about SEIRS via the SEMA website at www.sema.org.uk/seirs.
The various codes of practice do not specify a limiting number of shims that can be used under a baseplate but most rack manufacturers have their own rules. Typically, the manufacturers will limit the number of shims to something in the range of 3, or 4, or 5, shims in a stack. If you need more than this limiting number then the manufacturer might accept welding the shims together to form a single unit or you can use a smaller number of thicker shims e.g. a 15mm packer plus one or two normal shims.
You will almost certainly need to change the standard anchor bolts for some longer ones and, in some circumstances, you might need to change the type of anchor bolts. The anchor bolts that are normally supplied are designed to resist certain forces and have a maximum fixture thickness with which they can be used (this fixture thickness is often related to the thickness of the baseplate plus the thickness of the specified maximum number of shims).
If the total fixture thickness (i.e. baseplate plus shims) exceeds the limiting value for the anchor then a longer anchor, or a different anchor, will be required. You should contact your supplier as this will require design input.
Working Under Racking
Q. I have a query about pallet racking, in particular, working under it. Are there regulations as to what can/can’t be done on the ground under a lower level of pallet racking and is there a head height clearance?
A. If the racking is supporting a floor (or is otherwise a part of a building) then it will be covered by the Building Regulations and must therefore satisfy the requirements of the Building Regulations. For England and Wales guidance is available in “The merged approved documents,” available via the Government website assets.publishing.service.gov.uk. The Building Regulations include required headroom clearances e.g. Approved Documents B and K
Similarly, if you have an escape route that goes under a rack then you will need to satisfy the requirements given in Approved Document B.
There is also an obligation under provision 10 of the Work at Height Regulations www.hse.gov.uk/work-at-height/the-law.htm to consider falling objects.
In addition, your Insurer might have some views on the subject as some insurers will not accept things like workstations, desks, printers etc. being positioned under a rack.
Beyond these you will need to carry out a risk assessment of your operation.
SEMA Rack Safety Awareness Inspection Courses
SEMA runs a one-day safety course on Rack Safety Awareness and Inspection. These courses are 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. These courses are held at the SEMA headquarters in Burntwood, Staffordshire, but arrangements can be made to hold them at the delegates’ premises.
SEMA Approved Rack Inspectors Qualification
This qualification is aimed at professionals who conduct rack surveys as an integral and significant part of their duties. It involves delegates in undertaking an in-depth SEMA Course, together with an examination and practical assessment. CPD will be an important part of the qualification, demonstrating to end users that SEMA Approved Inspectors maintain a high professional standard.
SEMA Publications
SEMA has 26 publications – Codes of Practice, ‘Guides’ and European documents – all of which are available to purchase online. For further information on these documents contact SEMA or visit our website, www.sema.org.uk.
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