Storage Solutions

Industrial storage lockers enable a business to maintain and organize whatever necessary. Efficient filing capabilities allow you to save space and maximize your storage.

Storage management and inventory control streamlines business operations and helps businesses organize, track and store their inventory. With proper inventory control, a business can swiftly address changes in demand and match consumer demands.

Industrial racks are an optimized storage solution that can store a variety of products. Depending on the inventory, there are several racking options that work to organize products and maximize available floor space.

Selective pallet racking is the most common type of racking seen in warehouses, as it allows each pallet to be accessible from front, back or side of the aisle. It’s important to note that pallet racking requires a larger amount of channel space and will leave some space in the warehouse unused.

For warehouse racking, OSHA requires that:

• 176(a): “Where mechanical handling equipment is used, sufficient safe clearances shall be allowed for aisles, at loading docks, through doorways, and wherever turns or passage must be made. Aisles and passageways shall be kept clear and in good repair, with no obstruction across or in aisles that could create a hazard. Permanent aisles and passageways shall be appropriately marked.”
• 176(b): “Storage of material shall not create a hazard. Bags, containers, bundles, etc., stored in tiers shall be stacked, blocked, interlocked, and limited in height so that they are stable and secure against sliding or collapse.”
• 176(c): “Storage areas shall be kept free from accumulation of materials that constitute hazards from tripping, fire, explosion, or pest harborage. Vegetation control will be exercised when necessary.”

The NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) requires a permit for any storage systems that exceed 12 feet. Be sure to check the NFPA’s updated definitions of high-pile storage to ensure you’re operating within code.

It depends on your racking system. OSHA does not enforce weight limits on pallet racks. However, if your racking system fails due to overloading weight and someone gets hurt, you may face violations.

A warehouse mezzanine is a permanent structure that’s installed in a building. As permanent structures, mezzanines must adhere to strict building codes as opposed to freestanding equipment platforms. While equipment platforms offer twice the space, mezzanines can be no more than ⅓ of the overall underside space. Mezzanines can serve as an office, work or storage space, while equipment platforms provide access to heavy equipment or machinery.

Pallet flow systems utilize gravity and wheels or roller lanes to move inventory from one side of the system to another. Compared to other racking methods, pallet flow systems provide the highest storage density and minimize the number of times a pallet must be handled after storage.

Your warehouse pallet racking system should comply with all OSHA codes and be inspected regularly by a qualified professional to maintain its safety. Warehouse management requires a multi-faceted approach to ensure the integrity of your racking system and the safety of warehouse staff.