The Importance Of Cantilever Racking Maintenance
Cantilever racking is an excellent addition to many warehouses and storage units across the UK. Known for their versatility and capacity to store long and bulky items like timber, steel bars, and pipes, cantilever racks enable efficient use of space and streamlined operations. However, like any other type of pallet racking system, they require regular […] The post The Importance Of Cantilever Racking Maintenance appeared first on The Warehouse Racking Company.
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Cantilever racking is an excellent addition to many warehouses and storage units across the UK. Known for their versatility and capacity to store long and bulky items like timber, steel bars, and pipes, cantilever racks enable efficient use of space and streamlined operations.
However, like any other type of pallet racking system, they require regular maintenance work to ensure safety measures, functionality and longevity are all upheld.
In this blog, we will explore some key reasons why maintenance is imperative and share common practices that we’d highly recommend:
- Ensuring safety in your warehouse
- Compliance with regulations and standards
- Prolonging the lifespan of the system
- Maintaining operational efficiency
- Reducing costs and preventing downtime
- Best practices for cantilever racking maintenance
- When to replace components or systems
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Call 0800 4880 785 or use the contact form and we’ll be with you shortly.
Let’s get into the reasons to consider cantilever racking maintenance…
Ensuring Safety in the Workplace
Maintenance is key primarily for the reason of safety in your warehouse or building. Cantilever racking systems carry a lot of weight on a daily basis so over time the structural integrity of it can weaken.
Checking the health of your system regularly means you can pick up on problems early. Lessening the chances of serious injuries, stock damages or racking problems can only be a good thing.
Proper maintenance helps identify and rectify issues like:
- Bent or deformed arms and columns.
- Loose bolts or connections.
- Base damage caused by collisions.
- Rust or corrosion that compromises structural integrity.
Safety comes first and cantilever racking maintenance will help massively.
Compliance with Regulations and Standards
Cantilever racking maintenance results in constant compliance with health and safety regulations. For example, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in the UK mandates regular inspections of workplace equipment to prevent accidents. Non-compliance can result in fines, legal action, and reputational damage which are all things we’re sure you’d rather avoid.
Prolonging the Lifespan of the System
In the grand scheme of things, pallet racking systems are considerable investments and with this initial investment, you want to protect and prolong the lifespan to avoid premature repairs or replacements.
Prolonging the lifespan of your cantilever racking is highly advised. Effective maintenance will help with this as you can address minor issues early before they escalate into major ones.
For instance, identifying early signs of corrosion or damage allows for targeted repairs that preserve the integrity of the structure. Similarly, replacing worn-out components like pins or braces ensures that the system remains reliable under heavy loads. Over time, these practices result in substantial cost savings.
Maintaining Operational Efficiency
Operational efficiency is always desirable so businesses need to have their racking systems working at all times. Damaged or unstable racks can disrupt workflows, leading to delays in accessing inventory or potential damage to goods. Regular upkeep ensures that the system operates as intended, minimising downtime and maximising productivity.
Reducing Costs and Preventing Downtime
Preventative maintenance is always more cost-effective than reactive repairs. A small issue, such as a loose bolt, can quickly escalate into a significant problem if left unattended.
By conducting routine inspections and addressing issues promptly, businesses can avoid unexpected downtime and associated costs. We have scheduled cantilever racking maintenance packages should you want to explore them here at The Warehouse Racking Company.
Best Practices for Cantilever Racking Maintenance
Here are some cantilever racking maintenance beast practices that we suggest:
- Conduct regular inspections:For obvious signs of damage and schedule more thorough checks quarterly or annually. Engage accredited and qualified professionals such as ourselves for detailed assessments.
- Ensure loads do not exceed the specified weight limits: Make sure that they are evenly distributed across the system. Overloading can cause structural damage and other issues.
- Install protective barriers or guards: Place around the bases to minimise damage from forklift impacts. Other racking safety and protection equipment are available too if you want to be extra cautious.
- Keep the racking system clean: Ensure the system is clean and dry to prevent rust or corrosion. Daily wipe downs and protective coating applications are great where necessary.
- Maintain detailed records: Keep detailed records of inspections, repairs, and maintenance activities. This documentation is invaluable for tracking the system’s condition and demonstrating compliance with safety regulations.
Contact The Warehouse Racking Company
The aim of this blog was to provide some insight into why maintenance is appropriate for your cantilever racking system. It’s also worth mentioning that in some cases, replacements are indeed required.
Maintenance will prolong the life of your system but you may have to change it after a long period of time has passed. Investing in cantilever racking maintenance is a proactive step that pays dividends in the form of enhanced safety, operational efficiency, and long-term cost savings.
Whether you are managing a small warehouse or a large industrial facility, make maintenance an integral part of your operational strategy to maximise the benefits of your cantilever racking system.
For more information or a FREE quote, please get in touch as we’d be delighted to help.
Call us now on 0800 4880 785 or use the contact form and we’ll get back to you promptly.
The post The Importance Of Cantilever Racking Maintenance appeared first on The Warehouse Racking Company.
