Warehouse safety starts with ensuring your load labels for pallet racking systems are fit for purpose and capable of supporting the load capacity that they are designed for.
To achieve this, load testing and load notice certification play a crucial role in determining how much weight the pallet rack can hold whilst maintaining workplace safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency.
Stakapal provide loading data, as standard, with every new racking structure purchased. As a full manufacturing member of SEMA we prioritise safe working warehouse environments.
How do we test racking capacity?
Specifically, load testing involves placing controlled weight onto the materials that will be used to manufacture the warehouse racking to assess its strength and stability under maximum load conditions, determining its weight capacity.
At Stakapal, we have our own in-house testing facility and Research and Design team, who are responsible for testing every component that we manufacture. As a result of this testing process, we can ensure the safety of every racking system we supply can safely handle the weight limit on its load notice.
Need an inspection? Book here.
Annual inspections of racking are usually a requirement of insurance. Choosing a qualified SEMA Approved Racking Inspector SARI can help save you money and time.
Why are Load Notices important?
- Safety Assurance: The loading data is available quickly and clearly. So there is no question about the weight that the storage system can handle, limiting accidents caused by overloading.
- Regulatory Compliance: Meet industry standards and legal requirements. Displaying the pallet racking load capacity is usually a requirement for insurance, and void load notices often mean void insurance.
- Operational Efficiency: Avoid disruptions caused by equipment failure, such as damaged racks due to overloading.
- Extended Lifespan: Identify and address potential issues early to prolong the system’s durability.
What Is Involved in load testing for certification?
Load label certification ensures that your racking system complies with industry health and safety standards, such as:
- The Storage Equipment Manufacturers Association (SEMA) guidelines.
- European standards like EN 15512.
- Manufacturer-specific recommendations.
You can also complete a Rack Safety Awareness course to help with health and safety compliance.
Maintain Compliance with Stakapal
Need help with your load labels for pallet racking? Get in touch with our expert team of design engineers for advice and replacements.
Stakapal are full members of SEMA (Storage Equipment Manufacturers Association), with our installation and inspection teams fully SARI (SEMA Approved Rack Inspector), and SEIRS (Storage Equipment Installers Registration Scheme) registered.
How often should Load Labels be checked?
Loading information should be visible on your racking all the time, with regular checks that they are still valid.
Here are some examples of when they are always required to be replaced:
- The installation of a new storage solution.
- After any modifications or repairs.
- When they are missing or indecipherable.
Ultimately, by making load data, testing and certification a priority, businesses can minimise risks, protect employees, and ensure the longevity of their pallet racking systems. A proactive approach to safety benefits not only the warehouse but also the overall success of the organisation.
It is important that there is a Person Responsible for Racking Safety (PRRS) on site who is checking the racking for risk, damage or repairs, and racking systems are inspected by a SEMA Approved Racking Inspector (SARI) annually. This can help maintain compliance and prevent structural failure or instability, providing peace of mind for business operators.
