Operating a successful warehouse means staying on top of maintenance. However, maintaining your equipment is just one part of the equation. You should also check your racking systems often to identify evidence of wear and tear. Here are some signs your pallet racking systems need repairs to look out for in your own storage facility.
Misaligned Racks and Beams
There are many reasons why your racks and beams may have alignment problems, from forklift damage to poor initial installation. Regardless, tilted racking systems can cause significant problems to your operations later down the line. Misaligned racks and beams can weaken the integrity of your overall system, so check your braces and make sure everything is level. If it isn’t, that could be a sign that your pallet racking systems need repairs.
Evidence of Impact
Storage facilities often rely on heavy machinery to complete tasks. Forklifts, cranes, and other large pieces of equipment can damage your pallet racks when they make an impact. Some signs of damage are apparent, such as dents, scratches, and broken rack pieces. However, others are more elusive, so keep an eye out for loose beams, braces, and skewered racks.
Horizontal and Vertical Deflection
Sometimes, it can be challenging to spot beam deflections, especially on fully-loaded racks. However, bent and bowing beams put your entire system at risk for significant damage. These damaged racks won’t be able to handle heavy loads and my break under extreme weights. Remove all products from these racks and inspect them for deflections to ensure that everything functions properly.
Rust and Corrosion
Over time, your metal pallet racking systems may sustain some climate-induced damage. This is especially true if you’re operating a cold storage facility. Look for evidence of rust, paint blisters, and corrosion on all your racks. This kind of damage weakens your structures and is challenging to address, so take care of it as soon as you see the signs.
If you’ve identified any of these problems in your own facility, then you should contact a pallet rack repair company immediately. Don’t wait until it’s too late; contact Hammerhead today so that we can help you get your racking systems in good working condition.
