Warehouse Guardrails — Everything You Need To Know
Warehouse safety is a crucial aspect of any business operation. Moving heavy loads and operating heavy machinery in an industry are common, resulting in a huge possibility of accidents. One way to ensure the safety of warehouse workers and equipment is by installing guardrails. Guardrails are essential to warehouse storage solutions that provide a barrier between workers and machinery, prevent falls, and protect the infrastructure of the warehouse facility. In this blog post, we will dive deeply into everything you need to know about warehouse guardrails.
What is Warehouse Guardrails?
Warehouse guardrails are safety barriers installed in high-traffic areas of a warehouse to prevent workers, warehouse storage areas and equipment from falling off elevated platforms. These safety barriers can be used in warehouse environments, including loading docks, mezzanines, and conveyor systems. They are also used to protect other infrastructure within the warehouse, such as walls, columns, and pallet racks, from damage caused by forklifts or other machinery.
Types of Warehouse Guardrails
There are different types of warehouse guardrails, and they vary in size, strength, and materials. The most common types include:
Steel Guardrails
Steel guardrails are the most commonly used type of warehouse guardrails. They are strong and durable, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. They are available in different sizes and can be customised to fit any warehouse environment.
Rack Protectors
Rack protectors are designed to protect pallet racks from forklift impacts. They are made of steel or plastic and can be bolted onto the pallet rack uprights to absorb the impact of forklift collisions. Rack protectors are an excellent way to prevent damage to pallet racks, which can lead to serious safety hazards.
Column Protectors
Column protectors are designed to protect columns, posts, and walls from forklift collisions. They are typically heavy-duty steel and can be bolted onto the floor or column to provide extra protection against impact.
Bollards
Bollards are short, sturdy posts often used in loading docks or other high-traffic areas to protect workers and equipment from collisions. They can be made of steel or other materials and customised to fit any warehouse environment.
Benefits of Installing Warehouse Guardrails
The installation of warehouse guardrails comes with several benefits, including:
Better Safety
Guardrails provide a physical barrier that prevents workers and equipment from falling off elevated platforms or colliding with other objects within the warehouse. This helps reduce the risk of injury and property damage.
Value for Money
Installing warehouse guardrails is a cost-effective way to prevent accidents and damage within the warehouse. This can help reduce repair and insurance expenses.
Compliance
Many regulatory bodies require the installation of guardrails in warehouses and other industrial environments. Installing guardrails can help ensure compliance with these regulations.
Durability
Warehouse guardrails are designed to withstand heavy impact and wear and tear. They are built to last, making them a long-term investment in warehouse safety.
Conclusion
Warehouse guardrails are essential safety features that every warehouse should have. They provide a barrier between workers and machinery, prevent falls, and protect the infrastructure of the warehouse. Installing warehouse guardrails has several benefits, including increased safety, cost-effectiveness, compliance with regulations, and durability. If you have made up your mind to install guardrails for your warehouse storage solution, it is essential to consider the type of guardrail that suits your needs and the materials used in construction. Doing so will ensure a safer and more efficient working environment for your employees.