In a typical warehouse, lift trucks regularly move through tight aisles, loading and unloading heavy loads, day after day. At some point, rack damage is almost inevitable. Yet, many operations supervisors postpone repairs until the last minute, unaware of how quickly minor damage can develop into a major safety emergency.

Pallet Rack Repair Basics

Pallet rack repair entails restoring damaged racking systems to their original safety specifications and load ratings. Unlike complete replacement, repair is a cost-effective solution that can be conducted with reduced disruption to warehouse operations. Engineered rack repair kits work with existing racks to renew their safety and original capacity while ensuring protection against future damage.

The repair procedure is extraordinarily streamlined, often up to four times quicker than replacement, and needs 75% less product repositioning. Most repairs can be finished without fully unloading stored merchandise, which greatly minimizes downtime and operational disruption.

Common Types of Pallet Rack Damage

Understanding the various classifications of damage helps in properly evaluating your warehouse's safety needs:

Structural Damage: This affects the overall security and durability of the pallet rack, often resulting from overloading, poor installation, or repeated minor impacts. Structural damage undermines the entire system's stability.

Impact Damage: The most prevalent type, typically resulting from forklift impacts. According to industry statistics, about 90% of rack failures can be linked to forklift impact. This damage often occurs at the bottom portion of the forward column of the pallet rack frame.

Non-Visible Damage: Internal defects like weld breaks, corrosion, or metal fatigue aren't readily apparent but can seriously compromise rack stability. Routine professional assessments are essential for detecting these types of problems.

Safety Hazards and Risks of Damaged Rack

OSHA requires safe industrial racking systems in all U.S. facilities. When racks are compromised, the possible repercussions extend beyond legal violations to critical safety hazards.

Compromised racks have decreased capacity and present meaningful risks of failure and bodily harm. In extreme cases, diminished racks can cause catastrophic collapse, threatening workers, damaging inventory, and potentially causing fatalities. Additionally, employers are statutorily responsible for workplace safety under OSHA rules, making rack upkeep not just a practical concern but a legal requirement.

Repair Techniques and Best Practices

Modern rack repair methods have evolved significantly, providing solutions that are both more effective and less disruptive than traditional replacement:

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

On-Site Installation: Most repairs can be carried out on-site without removing entire rack sections. A rack repair jack secures the upright while its compromised section is excised and the repair kit is applied. The best repair kits are secured on, eliminating the need for on-site welding authorization.

Professional Assessment: Before any repair, a complete inspection by qualified professionals is necessary. The Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) guidelines state that damaged rack should be isolated and assessed by a supervising engineer prior to repair.

Choosing a Pallet Rack Repair Company in Phoenix

For warehouse operators in Phoenix, selecting the right rack repair company is essential. Raymond West stands out as a leading provider in the region, providing certified Damotech-based rack repair services with a team of over 400 experts across eight Western states. Our comprehensive approach includes inspection, custom repair kit design, and professional implementation that decreases operational disturbance. By working with Raymond West, warehouse managers acquire access to the industry's most innovative repair options while ensuring compliance with safety standards and securing their valuable inventory and personnel.

Raymond West's Phoenix facility serves the entire Phoenix Metro area, including Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Scottsdale, Glendale, Goodyear, Tolleson, Peoria and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Phoenix Material Handling Equipment Supplier

2659 E Magnolia St
Phoenix, AZ 85034
(602) 275-2228