Is your warehouse pallet racking starting to look a little rusty? Are you wondering whether it’s time to replace that racking or if a little rust is harmless?
Rust is an issue most warehouse owners and managers have to deal with at some point, but it can be difficult to determine when enough is enough. If you’re not sure whether the rust on your pallet racking is getting out of hand, we’re here to help. Read on to discover how much rust is too much rust on pallet racking.
Why Rust Is Bad
Rust is more than an eyesore; it compromises the structural integrity of pallet racking, leading to potential collapses that can damage products and endanger workers. Rust also spreads easily, escalating repair costs and safety risks the longer it’s ignored. Beyond safety concerns, rust can affect the aesthetics of your warehouse. A warehouse with rusty components can appear unprofessional to clients and visitors.
Causes of Rust on Pallet Racking
Understanding the root cause of rust can help you prevent it. Essentially, when moisture and oxygen come into contact with metal, they can start a chemical reaction that produces rust. Moisture can sneak into your warehouse through open doors or windows, a leaky roof, or even just from the air. Heavy humidity levels can also contribute to rust formation.
Besides moisture, there are other factors that can increase the likelihood of rust on pallet racking. These include excessive wear and tear, improper storage of goods that can cause scratches or dents on the racking, and even exposure to certain chemicals.
How Much Rust Is Too Much
Now for the big question: how much rust is too much on pallet racking? There’s no definitive answer to this. The amount of rust that makes a rack unsafe can vary based on a few factors, such as the type of metal, how old the racking is, and its overall condition.
As a general rule of thumb, if you start seeing any signs of rust on your pallet racking—no matter how small—you should take immediate action. Remember, rust spreads! This means that little bit of rust you see today could turn into a much bigger problem tomorrow if you don’t address it promptly.
How You Can Prevent Rust on Your Warehouse Racking
How can you prevent rust on your warehouse racking? First of all, make sure you properly maintain and clean your racking. If you keep your pallet racking in pristine condition, it’s less likely to develop rust in the first place.
That said, no matter how well you maintain your racks, age will eventually catch up with them. This makes moisture management an important second step in preventing rust. You must keep your warehouse well-ventilated and dry to prevent moisture from accumulating.
Even then, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to eliminate all moisture from your warehouse. Because of this, it’s important to regularly inspect your warehouse racking. Regular inspections can unearth early signs of rust, allowing you to address the issue before it becomes a bigger problem.
Don’t let rust take over your warehouse. While rust is a natural occurrence that most warehouses will encounter, you can keep it from becoming an issue by understanding its causes and taking preventative measures against it.
