Stop Those Pallets! Boost Warehouse Safety with Pallet Load Stops
Keep Inventory in Place with Back-of-Rack Protection — Pallet Load Stops to the Rescue
Pallet rack systems help to increase efficiency and maximize space in industrial warehouse facilities. Various features are built into pallet rack systems to bolster stability and strength under immense load capacities and safeguard against forklift strikes and external issues such as seismic activity. Traditionally, we think about aisle-facing protection to prevent forklift damage; however, it’s equally important to consider the area behind the pallet rack. Pallet load stops prevent pallets from being pushed too far back and falling off the racking. They also keep inventory from encroaching on the longitudinal flue space.
The longitudinal flue area is the required open space behind a rack system and between two back-to-back rows. It runs perpendicular to the direction of loading. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), there must be a minimum of 6” of flue or open space behind a pallet rack row to help slow fire spread and allow heat and smoke to rise upward.
Keep An Open Mind About Open Spaces
In general, pallet load stops are easy-to-install and cost-effective measures to prevent inventory warehouse injuries and damage. Several accessories are available to help you choose the right option based on the type of pallet rack and system configuration.
Double-Sided Load Stops in Back-to-Back Configuration
Pallet Load Stops for Standard Racking
- Pallet stops – flue space protectors
- Backstop beams
- Wire backstops
- Wire mesh containment panels
- Rack straps
- Netting
Backstop Beams
Pallet stop or flue space protector – no matter your preferred phrase, these steel accessories get the job done. Most are approximately 6” wide and mounted to the rear beam. They angle up to brace a pallet if needed. Choose single- or double-sided pallet stops depending on your rack configuration. Dimensions and offset size vary by manufacturer.
Check out our deep dive blog to learn more about transverse vs. longitudinal flue spaces.
Backstop beams – are installed approximately 6-12” above the rear cross beam between the uprights. Pallet rack configured for pallets sitting flush with the back of the system requires a flush backstop beam, whereas systems with a pallet overhang (approx. 3”) use an offset-style backstop beam.]
Wire backstops – vertical wire dividers are a cost-effective option for preventing hand-stacked inventory from falling off the back of the rack shelf. Choose full-height or partial dividers that clip quickly into place. The best choice will depend on your stacking heights and inventory specifications.
Wire mesh containment panels – these modular-sized panels are typically available in single or double-wide widths. They are made of steel-welded wire mesh and mounted on the rear of a pallet rack system using either offset or flush positioning.
Rack straps – sturdy straps made from elastic webbing and polyester mount easily to pallet rack uprights via metal connectors at the ends. You can attach more than one per bay as needed and quickly adjust them as inventory specifications change. Straps permit a 6” pallet overhang.
Safety netting – choose polypropylene or nylon net material and order to fit your pallet rack. Netting secures to the rack uprights and beams –and you can mount it on the rear of the system (most common), underneath rack bays to stop items from falling, or wherever needed to prevent falling inventory.
Triumph Over Disaster with the Right Tools and the Right Team
Apex Colorado is your local source for pallet load stops and all your warehousing safety needs. Our experts are committed to warehouse function without sacrificing safety or cost-efficiency. Talk with our design team to customize your pallet racking systems to your unique inventory, space specs, and application goals. Apex Colorado will also install your warehouse systems to ensure proper function and that your racking systems match your long-term needs. We also offer expert pallet rack and warehouse safety inspections and repairs through our Apex PROs. Give us a call today to discuss your pallet racking storage needs, and we’ll work with you to ensure the best solution.
