Warehouse shelving often carries tonnes of goods. When shelving fails, the consequences are serious: damaged stock, downtime and, in the worst case, injuries. Safety is therefore not a detail but an obligation. In this article we explain what the EN 15512 standard means and why a periodic inspection is important.
What is the EN 15512 standard?
EN 15512 is the European standard for the design of adjustable pallet racking. The standard sets out how shelving must be calculated and constructed to carry the load safely. Shelving designed and assembled according to this standard offers the assurance that the construction can handle the specified weight.
Correct anchoring and placement according to the standard are also essential during assembly. Shelving that is not built correctly loses a large part of its load capacity, even if the material itself is in order.
Why a load notice is required
Every shelving unit should have a load notice indicating how much weight is permitted per beam and per section. Employees then know exactly what the limits are. Overloading is one of the most common causes of damage to shelving.
The annual inspection
Shelving wears down and gets damaged through daily use, especially from forklift collisions. A periodic inspection is therefore important. During an inspection, the following are checked:
- Damaged or bent uprights and beams
- Missing or loose safety pins
- Rust or other material damage
- Correct anchoring and stability
- Signs of overloading
Damaged components must be replaced in time. A small repair on time prevents a big problem later.
Safety starts with the right partner
Safe shelving starts with a correct design and skilled assembly, and remains safe through regular inspection. At Magazijnservice we assemble according to EN 15512 and help you with advice on the safe use and maintenance of your shelving. Get in touch if you want your existing shelving inspected or new shelving safely installed in Antwerp or Belgium. Or call: +32 451 04 72 96.