Industrial shelving represents the backbone of the warehouse, the core on which productivity increases are developed.

However, over time, shelving can become damaged due to several factors: incorrect load placement, collisions with handling equipment and other oversights are just some of the many causes that can compromise the integrity of the shelving.

UNI EN 15635: risk assessment

The first step when you notice damaged shelving is to carry out a risk assessment.

In this regard, the UNI EN 15635 standard, which governs the “Use and Maintenance of Storage Equipment,” generally states:

The user should ensure that regular inspections of the shelving are conducted by technically competent personnel throughout its lifecycle, with frequencies established by the PRSES (not exceeding 12 months). The inspections should include a report with observations on the damage levels (“green,” “yellow,” and “red”, according to the seriousness), in order to ensure that any damage requiring immediate intervention is addressed. The main goal is to maintain the structural security and, consequently, the safety of personnel.

From this, it is clear that periodic checks on storage equipment are essential in order to detect damage in time and to allow timely intervention.

Depending on the damage severity, the standard identifies three risk levels:

  • Green Risk: the shelving components are considered safe, in good working condition, and no intervention is needed. No reduction in the load capacity of the shelf is required.
  • Yellow Risk: the damaged shelving components must be replaced and temporarily relieved of the load. It is important to note that local intervention does not require the immediate emptying of the entire shelf. The user must designate an area where the damage is significant enough to require corrective action. If no action is taken within four weeks, the risk level escalates to red.
  • Red Risk: the shelving shows critical damage; it must be unloaded immediately, and the area must be restricted from access.

Periodic shelving inspections: who is responsible?

Inspecting storage equipment is a task that requires specific skills and must only be carried out by qualified professionals. The complex and technical nature of this operation makes it difficult for untrained individuals to identify damage that could compromise not only the safety and integrity of the shelving system but also the safety of workers.

These operations are handled by the PRSES, the Person Responsible for Storage Equipment Safety, appointed by the end-user. The PRSES must define the inspection frequencies and ensure they are carried out, including the weekly visual inspections (keeping a control log), and those conducted by a technical expert, who provides a report. The PRSES must communicate with all personnel and be fully aware of all procedures needed to ensure safety within the warehouse, intervening promptly if any issues arise.

To fulfil this role, the PRSES must receive specific training to fully understand the procedures for maintenance and intervention related to the supplier’s storage equipment.

Conclusions

In conclusion, proper management and maintenance of industrial shelving are essential to ensure warehouse safety and efficiency. As highlighted, the first step in case of damage is risk assessment, following the UNI EN 15635 standard. Regular monitoring of the structures allows for timely intervention to prevent further deterioration, reducing the risk of accidents and operational disruptions.

Relying on qualified professionals for inspections and repairs is essential to preserve the integrity of the storage system. DIY repair attempts can endanger both goods and personnel. Therefore, in order to ensure regulatory compliance and safety, it is necessary to replace damaged components with those supplied by the original manufacturer.

 

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