Operation and Maintenance of Adjustable Pallet Racking
Safety management
The racking supplier shall provide user manuals and appropriate training to the end users for correct usage and maintenance of the racking. The safety of the storage equipment shall be maintained.
This shall include training of equipment operators, inspection, documentation of damage reports, and appropriate action when damage occurs. The equipment supplier shall be liaised with for
advice on training, inspection, repair or replacement of the equipment, as appropriate.
Working load limits
The working load limit or the total working load limit per bay for the racking installation shall not be exceeded. The permissible unit load limit and permissible unit load limit per bay shall be displayed
in accordance with Item (a) of Clause 1.6.1.
Alteration of the racking installation
The racking installation shall not be altered to deviate from the load application and configuration furnished for the racking installation. Physical alterations to uprights, bracings, beams or components, such as welding on additional cleats or bearers, shall not be made. In addition, change of use, such as from timber pallets to post pallets, shall not be permitted. When designing the racking, the nature of the load transfer between unit load (e.g.) uniformly distributed action and concentrated action) and the
immediate supporting elements shall be considered.
Operating instructions
Racking installation shall have in one or more conspicuous locations on or adjacent to the storage equipment, a permanent corrosion resistant plaque not less than A3 in sizing with minimum 20 mm lettering indelibly printed and shall be mechanically secured to the racking structure at 2-metre above floor level. Operating instructions on the plaque shall include but not be limited to the following:
- The correct application and use of the equipment.
- The working load limits to be adhered to.
- Prohibitions on unauthorized alterations.
- The requirement to report any damage incurred due to impact so that its effect can be assessed in accordance with Clauses 8.3 and 8.4.
Hazardous situations
Any hazardous situations which may exist in relation to the operation or maintenance of the racking installation shall be reported.
Damage report
Any damage incurred, however minor, shall be reported so that its effect on safety can be immediately assessed. Please note, there is no longer the option for a facility to not have Safe Work Load charts – all racking is required to have them.
