In a standard warehouse, forklifts continuously move through narrow aisles, loading and unloading heavy loads, day after day. At some point, rack damage is practically inevitable. Still, many operations managers put off repairs until it’s too late, not realizing how rapidly minor damage can develop into a significant safety hazard.

Pallet Rack Repair Basics

Pallet rack repair entails restoring damaged racking systems to their initial safety specifications and load capacities. In contrast to complete replacement, repair is a cost-effective solution that can be performed with reduced interruption to warehouse activities. Engineered rack repair kits work with existing racks to renew their safety and original strength while providing protection against future damage.

The repair procedure is extraordinarily streamlined, in many cases up to four times faster than replacement, and needs 75% less product repositioning. Most repairs can be finished without completely unloading stored products, which greatly reduces downtime and operational interruption.

Common Types of Pallet Rack Damage

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

Structural Damage: This impacts the overall stability and strength of the pallet rack, often caused by excessive weight, poor installation, or repeated minor impacts. Structural damage weakens the entire system's stability.

Impact Damage: The most prevalent type, typically resulting from lift truck collisions. According to industry figures, approximately 90% of rack collapses can be attributed to lift truck impact. This damage generally occurs at the base segment of the front column of the pallet rack upright.

Non-Visible Damage: Internal issues like weld fractures, corrosion, or metal fatigue aren't readily apparent but can significantly compromise rack strength. Routine professional assessments are critical for detecting these types of problems.

Safety Hazards and Risks of Damaged Rack

OSHA requires safe industrial racking systems in all United States warehouses. When racks are damaged, the possible repercussions reach beyond legal violations to serious safety risks.

Compromised racks have decreased capacity and present meaningful risks of failure and personal injury. In extreme cases, diminished racks can result in catastrophic failure, putting at risk workers, damaging inventory, and potentially causing fatalities. Additionally, employers are statutorily responsible for workplace safety under OSHA rules, making rack upkeep not just a functional concern but a legal responsibility.

Repair Techniques and Best Practices

Today’s rack repair approaches have evolved significantly, offering solutions that are both more efficient and less invasive than ordinary replacement:

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

On-Site Installation: Most repairs can be carried out on-site without dismantling entire rack sections. A rack repair jack supports the upright while its damaged portion is excised and the repair kit is fitted. The best repair kits are secured on, eliminating the requirement for on-site welding authorization.

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

Choosing a Pallet Rack Repair Company in Sparks

For warehouse supervisors in Sparks, selecting the right rack repair company is essential. Raymond West stands out as a leading provider in the region, offering certified Damotech-based rack repair services with a team of over 400 technicians across eight Western states. Our thorough approach includes 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 technologies while ensuring compliance with safety requirements and securing their valuable inventory and personnel.

Raymond's Reno / Sparks service operation includes all of Western Nevada, including Reno, Sparks, Carson City, Minden, Gardnerville, Incline Village, Virginia City, Indian Hills, Johnson Lane, Fernley, Fallon, Dayton, Silver Springs, Spanish Springs, Yerington, Genoa and Zephyr Cove.

Raymond West | Reno / Sparks Material Handling Equipment Supplier

975 Terminal Way
Reno, NV 89502
(775) 356-8383