Racking – What Will Happen if Your Racking System Collapses

I don’t know if you saw the latest video on youtube with the collapse of the vodka pallet racking system but it is another example of an inferior quality racking installation that should act as a wake up call for all companies.

And whilst most companies have taken every precaution to protect themselves by using SEIRS qualified installation teams, avoided second hand racking and had an annual racking inspection and maintenance programme, there are a few that may find themselves exposed to this potential disaster.

So if the fear of your racking collapsing and potentially injuring or killing an employee isn’t enough, here’s what’s likely to happen in the subsequent investigation.

As well as interviewing everyone responsible for the warehouse and involved in the incident, maybe 2 or 3 times, to identify any potential inconsistencies, there will also be a forensic investigation.

Firstly, a detailed inventory of the scene will be carried out to record the broken rack components and a reconstruction of the loads carried at the time of the failure. This enables the investigation team to calculate the utilisation of each racking bay.

The team will then use finite element methods to calculate the load capacity and the stability under load of the racking.

They will then perform buckling analyses of the columns as well as sensitivity studies to look at geometric and load imperfections, such as dents to columns, beam types and the condition of the beams to assess the impact they could have had on the incident. This will also take into consideration the potential impact that mis-loading could have on the racking.

And just to ensure that the data you have provided them with is correct, they will cut the beams to provide an objective assessment of the beam quality and the expected load capacity.

If they find that you have been overloading the racking, you will be found liable and could face a hefty fine or even imprisonment – whether you committed the crime knowingly or not.

To prevent the situation from ever arising you can do 4 things

Firstly, only ever install racking systems that are custom designed to your specifications by experienced project managers as opposed to using second hand racking.

Secondly, find out exactly where the racking is being manufactured from. With reports of substandard steel being used by racking imported from the far east, you may find your load capacity may not be as much as you were told.

Thirdly, carry out annual racking inspection from a qualified and objective inspector who will advise of any issues and provide you with the indemnity you require to protect yourself.

And finally, never, ever accept a racking quote without a 100% no quibble guarantee from a supplier you know and can trust.