In a standard warehouse, forklifts regularly move through narrow aisles, loading and unloading heavy loads, day in and day out. At some point, rack damage is nearly inevitable. Yet, many operations supervisors put off repairs until the last minute, not realizing how rapidly minor damage can escalate into a serious safety hazard.

Pallet Rack Repair Basics

Pallet rack repair involves restoring damaged racking systems to their initial safety specifications and load ratings. In contrast to complete replacement, repair is a economical solution that can be completed with reduced interruption to warehouse operations. Engineered rack repair kits integrate with existing racks to renew their safety and original strength while providing protection against future damage.

The repair process is surprisingly efficient, in many cases up to four times faster than replacement, and needs 75% less product repositioning. Most repairs can be finished without fully unloading stored inventory, which significantly reduces downtime and operational disruption.

Common Types of Pallet Rack Damage

Being aware of the various categories of damage helps in properly evaluating your warehouse's safety requirements:

Structural Damage: This impacts the overall stability and durability of the pallet rack, often due to overloading, poor installation, or repeated minor impacts. Structural damage compromises the entire system's stability.

Impact Damage: The most prevalent type, typically resulting from forklift accidents. According to industry data, roughly 90% of rack collapses can be attributed to lift truck impact. This damage usually occurs at the bottom portion of the front column of the pallet rack upright.

Non-Visible Damage: Internal defects like weld cracks, rust, or metal fatigue aren't readily apparent but can seriously compromise rack integrity. Scheduled professional inspections are crucial for identifying these issues.

Safety Hazards and Risks of Damaged Rack

OSHA requires safe industrial racking systems in all United States facilities. When racks are compromised, the potential repercussions reach beyond legal violations to serious safety hazards.

Compromised racks have decreased capacity and present serious risks of failure and personal harm. In extraordinary cases, weakened racks can lead to catastrophic collapse, threatening workers, damaging inventory, and potentially causing fatalities. Additionally, employers are legally responsible for workplace safety under OSHA laws, making rack upkeep not just a practical consideration but a legal responsibility.

Repair Techniques and Best Practices

Modern rack repair techniques have evolved significantly, providing solutions that are both more efficient and less disruptive than conventional replacement:

Engineered Repair Kits: Companies like Damotech provide purpose-built kits developed to reinstate rack integrity. The DAMO PRO and DAMO FLEX are examples of engineered solutions that not only repair damage but shield against subsequent impacts.

On-Site Installation: Most repairs can be conducted on-site without taking out entire rack sections. A repair jack holds the upright while its compromised portion is removed and the repair kit is installed. The best repair kits are fastened on, avoiding the requirement for on-site welding permits.

Professional Assessment: Before any repair, a complete inspection by trained professionals is crucial. The Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) guidelines state that damaged rack should be segregated and evaluated by a supervising engineer before being worked on.

Choosing a Pallet Rack Repair Company in Boise

For warehouse managers in Boise, picking the right rack repair company is critical. Raymond West distinguishes itself as a leading provider in the region, providing certified Damotech-based rack repair services with a team of over 400 specialists across eight Western states. Our complete approach features inspection, tailored repair kit design, and professional installation that decreases operational disturbance. By collaborating with Raymond West, warehouse managers obtain access to the industry's most innovative repair options while guaranteeing compliance with safety regulations and protecting their valuable inventory and personnel.

Raymond West's Boise service center serves most of Idaho, including Boise, Nampa, Meridian, Idaho Falls, Caldwell, Pocatello, Twin Falls, Post Falls and surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Boise Material Handling Equipment Supplier

743 W McGregor Ct #100
Boise, ID 83705
(800) 675-2500