Pallet Rack Impact Protection – Requirements and Regulations
How to meet the requirements for pallet rack impact protection – Swedish Work Environment Authority regulations, clear and to the point.
Key Requirements at a Glance
- Impact protection: Install at corners/rack ends and wherever forklifts drive close to the racking.
- Beam locks: Secure all beams so they cannot be dislodged during loading/unloading.
- Maximum load: Post the maximum load per bay and per beam level, clearly visible.
- Anti-collapse mesh/back stops: Install wherever there is a risk of pallets or goods being pushed through.
- Anchoring: Bolt to the floor (take extra care on asphalt). Add wall/roof anchoring if needed after a load-bearing capacity check.
- Fall protection: Use over aisles and workstations beneath racking.
- Pallets: Use intact, sturdy pallets. For weak pallets – use pallet supports/decking or switch pallet type.
- Inspections: Inspect before use and then regularly, at least annually in accordance with SS-EN 15635. Keep records.
Quick Checklist
- ☐ Is there impact protection at corners/rack ends and along traffic routes?
- ☐ Are all beams secured with beam locks?
- ☐ Are maximum load signs for each bay and beam level clearly visible?
- ☐ Is anti-collapse protection installed wherever there is a risk?
- ☐ Is the racking properly anchored to the floor (and to the wall/roof if needed)?
- ☐ Is fall protection in place over aisles/work areas?
- ☐ Do you have procedures for regular inspections (at least annually) and damage handling?
- ☐ Are mounting instructions and load tables easily accessible?
Responsibility, Oversight and Inspection
- The employer is responsible for preventing risks and ensuring that pallet racking is used safely.
- Ongoing self-inspection must be in place – document inspections, corrective actions and damage.
- Regular inspection is recommended at least annually in accordance with SS-EN 15635 (in-house or by a qualified expert).
Recommended Solutions to Help You Meet the Requirements
- End-of-aisle/corner protectors and post protectors near forklift traffic and turns.
- Linear railings/beam protectors to separate traffic from racking.
- Contrasting colors and clear signage at passageways and for maximum loads.
- A damage plan – mark damage, unload bays and cordon them off if needed until repaired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
External third-party inspection is not an absolute requirement, but regular inspections must be carried out. Many companies choose an annual inspection in accordance with SS-EN 15635 as part of their routines.
At corners/rack ends and wherever forklift traffic runs close to the racking. Also install it wherever posts risk being struck by a forklift or its load.
Yes. Bolt to the floor (take extra care on asphalt). If needed, add wall/roof anchoring after checking the load-bearing capacity.
When there is a risk of pallets or goods being pushed through – for example with double-sided racking or when there are aisles/workstations behind it.
The maximum load per bay and per beam level, placed so that operators can easily see the information from the forklift.
Some of Our Pallet Rack Impact Protection Products
Sources
Swedish Work Environment Authority: Pallet Racking – Guidance
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