Rack Guards & Pallet Rack Guarding Solutions

Preventing Structural Compromise

Structural columns of pallet racks face constant risk in storage environments. A single impact from a forklift or outrigger can buckle an upright and compromise the bay's load capacity. This damage often leads to expensive repairs or total rack collapse. Installing rack protectors provides a physical shield to deflect machinery and absorb impact energy. This preventive measure protects the steel frame to ensure safety compliance and reduce operational downtime.

Steel and Polymer Material Options

We offer solutions for various levels of facility traffic. Steel pallet rack protectors are fabricated from structural steel and mounted to the floor using concrete wedge anchors. These units provide a solid barrier for heavy equipment areas. Whereas, HDPE pallet rack protectors use air-chamber technology to absorb shock and reform after impact. These polymer options are chemical-resistant and nonconductive. They work well in cold storage or food processing facilities where rust is a concern.

Aisle and End-of-Row Solutions

Complete facility safety requires covering all impact angles. End-of-aisle guards shield rack rows where forklifts make tight turns. These units offer wrap-around steel protection for frame anchor points. We also supply low profile pallet rack guard options for individual columns. These defend the bottom 12 to 24 inches of the frame without reducing the aisle width. Options range from bolt-on units for permanent layouts to strap-on models for quick retrofitting.

FAQs:

1. What is the difference between steel and plastic rack guards?

Steel guards anchor to the floor and provide a rigid barrier to stop equipment. Plastic (HDPE) guards attach directly to the column to absorb and disperse impact energy through compression.

2. Do these guards require drilling into the floor?

Steel rack guards generally require drilling into the concrete slab for wedge anchors. Most plastic guards attach to rack columns using straps or hardware and do not require floor drilling.

3. How high should a rack guard be?

Most impact damage occurs near the ground. Standard rack guards range from 12 to 24 inches tall to protect wheel hubs and forks. Taller options are available for specific hazards.

4. Are these guards compatible with all rack brands?

Our column guards fit standard teardrop and structural rack uprights. Always measure the column face width to ensure the correct fit.

5. Do rack guards help with OSHA compliance?

Rack guards can support OSHA compliance by helping protect pallet rack uprights from forklift and equipment impacts that may compromise structural integrity. OSHA requires safe, well-maintained storage systems, and rack guards are commonly used as part of a broader warehouse safety and damage-prevention program.