Guide to Storage Equipment Installations
Guide to Warehouse Racking Installation
Do you have racking you need to install? Whether you are setting up a new warehouse, extending, or moving to a new facility, warehouse racking installation is a big job.
It requires smart thinking, careful planning, and consideration of various factors. For example, does the storage equipment work for your picking methods? Are there any legal requirements you need to follow? Which racking supplier should I choose?
Not sure where to start? Well, at SEMA, it's our job to provide you with the assurance you need to get your racking right. So, to give you a helping hand, below we outline the various factors you should consider before installing your pallet racking. Use this as a checklist if you like, to ensure you cover all essential aspects.
Correct Racking Design
First and foremost, ensure that you have the correct racking design. It must be suitable for the type and volume of stock you have, as well as designed based on the throughput and accessibility you need.
You should also ensure that the design and manufacture of the racking meet industry design codes. These are critical in ensuring the design meets structural analysis requirements and that it incorporates the right loads and safety factors. In the UK, it is acceptable for designs to meet either SEMA Design Codes or the European Code EN 15512.
Make sure you work with a supplier who understands all these areas.
Meeting Warehouse Racking Installation Regulations
For your Health and Safety requirements, you should be aware that storage equipment installation projects are covered HSE guidance. HSG76 (Warehousing and Storage: A Guide to Health and Safety), written for the warehousing and storage industry, covers racking. It’s not a legal requirement to follow this best practice document, but adhering to the advice given is normally enough to comply and, more importantly, keep you on the right side of the law.
With your warehouse racking installation, the guidance states that ‘racking should only be installed by competent people in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions’. Sounds simple enough. But, in a largely unregulated profession, how do you know if your installer works safely?
Are Your Installers Trained?
Installers must undergo proper training in order to work safely. However, the reality is that most installers still learn on the job. Considering that even the smallest deviation from the design intent can impact the structural integrity of the system, it is crucial to have a qualified person install your racking.
In response to the problem, over 20 years ago, SEMA established SEIRS. The national registration scheme rigorously trains installers on correct racking installation methods in accordance with SEMA standards. The Health and Safety Executive supports the initiative and you will see a reference to SEIRS in HSG76. As a CSCS Partner Card Scheme, it is a recognised route to a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card.
Choosing Your Supplier
In an industry with very few barriers to entry, it's hard to choose a supplier you can trust. Remember – a polished website and tonnes of experience doesn't always equate to quality and safety. It’s very easy in any job to pick up bad habits or, even worse, not learn the correct methods and skills.
With a SEMA Member, a safe working environment comes as standard. Each member commits to showing their expertise and raising quality within the industry. They ensure the design, manufacture, and installation of your storage solution meets SEMA Standards.
The Benefits of Using Trained Installers
Apart from the critical benefit of safety, another major advantage of using trained installers reduces costs. Badly installed racking can lead to damage, unnecessary wear and tear, and over time can weaken the integrity of the structure, eventually causing it to stop functioning entirely. Imagine the effect this could have on your business’s reputation and the cost required for repairs.
Invest in your racking installation now and it will pay you back in the long term.
What to Expect From Your Racking Supplier?
Your racking supplier should visit your warehouse to examine the processes and warehouse space before installation. This includes measuring the floor capacity and height, analysing the type and quantity of stock, well as determining how it will travel and be picked. Only with this information can your supplier recommend the best solution for your business.
KNOWLEDGE HUB
Looking for guidance on your storage equipment? Head over to our Knowledge Hub where we provide an insight into warehouse systems, industry requirements, best practice measures and how to improve safety standards.
