In a standard warehouse, forklifts constantly move through tight aisles, loading and unloading heavy loads, day after day. Sooner or later, rack damage is almost inevitable. However, many operations supervisors postpone repairs until it’s too late, unaware of how quickly minor damage can develop into a major safety hazard.

Pallet Rack Repair Basics

Pallet rack repair involves restoring damaged racking systems to their initial safety specifications and load capacities. Unlike complete replacement, repair is a cost-effective solution that can be completed with limited disruption to warehouse operations. Engineered rack repair kits integrate with existing racks to restore their safety and original strength while providing protection against future damage.

The repair process is surprisingly streamlined, commonly up to four times faster than replacement, and demands 75% less product repositioning. Most repairs can be completed without fully unloading stored inventory, which significantly reduces downtime and operational disruption.

Common Types of Pallet Rack Damage

Understanding the different classifications of damage helps in correctly assessing your warehouse's safety needs:

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

Impact Damage: The most prevalent type, typically caused by forklift impacts. According to industry figures, about 90% of rack failures can be attributed to equipment impact. This damage often occurs at the bottom portion of the front column of the pallet rack upright.

Non-Visible Damage: Hidden defects like weld fractures, rust, or metal fatigue aren't immediately apparent but can severely compromise rack integrity. Routine professional inspections are essential for identifying these issues.

Safety Hazards and Risks of Damaged Rack

OSHA mandates safe industrial racking systems in all United States facilities. When racks are compromised, the potential repercussions extend beyond legal violations to critical safety dangers.

Compromised racks have decreased capacity and pose meaningful risks of failure and personal injury. In extraordinary cases, diminished racks can lead to catastrophic failure, endangering workers, harming inventory, and potentially causing fatalities. Additionally, employers are statutorily responsible for workplace safety under OSHA laws, making rack maintenance not just a practical concern but a legal responsibility.

Repair Techniques and Best Practices

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

Engineered Repair Kits: Companies like Damotech supply specialty kits designed to renew rack integrity. The DAMO PRO and DAMO FLEX are instances of engineered solutions that not only fix damage but protect against subsequent impacts.

On-Site Installation: Most repairs can be performed on-site without dismantling entire rack sections. A repair jack holds the upright while its damaged portion is cut and the repair kit is fitted. The best repair kits are bolted on, eliminating the requirement for on-site welding permits.

Professional Assessment: Before any repair, a thorough inspection by certified professionals is essential. The Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) guidelines specify that compromised rack should be segregated and evaluated by a supervising engineer before being worked on.

Choosing a Pallet Rack Repair Company in Ontario

For warehouse operators in Ontario, picking the right rack repair provider is essential. Raymond West excels as a leading provider in the region, delivering certified Damotech-based rack repair services with a team of over 400 specialists across eight Western states. Our thorough approach features inspection, tailored repair kit design, and professional setup that decreases operational disturbance. By collaborating with Raymond West, warehouse managers obtain access to the industry's most cutting-edge repair options while ensuring compliance with safety requirements and safeguarding their valuable inventory and personnel.

Raymond West's Ontario, California facility serves parts of Los Angeles County and San Bernardino County, including Ontario, Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, Upland, La Verne, San Dimas, Covina, West Covina, Pomona, Diamond Bar, Rowland Heights, Chino, Norco, Eastvale, Corona, Jurupa Valley, San Bernardino, Rialto and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Ontario California Material Handling Equipment Supplier

4602 E Brickell St
Ontario, CA 91761
(909) 930-9399