Buy Barriers, Stay Safe, Save Money

Any warehouse manager knows the trials and tribulations of keeping your pallet racking in tact - especially when fork lifts and other warehouse vehicles are in operation around the workplace. But the fact is, accidents happen and sometimes this can be detrimental to not just your pallet racking, but to the health and safety of others too.

To prevent this from happening - and to save a lot of money in the long run - it's worth investing in protective barriers and column guards to stop any major damage from occurring. After all, it's easy to replace a barrier but it's not so easy (or wallet-friendly) to replace a whole bay of racking. Or deal with a serious accident involving a member of your team.

For more information about our barriers and column guards, drop us a line or call 0845 017 8866.

A reminder of what we offer...

Our online shop is currently down for maintenance, however you can request a FREE catalogue by dropping us an email with your name and address. 

Know Your Stuff - Warehouse Pallet Racking

Refurbishing your warehouse and sourcing competitive pallet racking quotes can be quite daunting, especially when it comes to understanding some of the jargon.

So, to give you an understanding of the technical terms that you may be faced with, below is a labelled image which breaks down all of the parts and accessories for pallet racking systems  - complete with brief descriptions too!

1) Run Spacer
Used to maintain a fixed parallel safety clearance between double sided runs of racking.

2) Bolted Joining Unit
Connects frames vertically and ensures strength is fully maintained at the joints. Allows beams to be located around the joint.

3) Frame Footplates
Essential for stability and allows racking to be bolted to the floor.

4) Pallet Foot Support
Used in pairs across the beams to support box or caged pallets which have corner posts, skids or feet.

5) Fork Spacer
Used in pairs across the beams to provide fork entry spaces. Provides support for, and access to, non-palletised loads.

6) Drum Chock
Sits on the front beam and cradles one end of a drum or barrel to prevent them from rolling.

7) Coil Cradle
Spans beams to provide a place for coiled materials to sit with extra support.

8) Steel Shelf Panels
Panels span a pair of box beams to provide wide-bay steel shelving.

9) Steel Shelf Panels (2)
Panels span and sit with a pair of stepped beams and provide minimising shelf thickness.

10) Shelf Support
Fitted to stepped beams to provide additional support and greater loading capacity for chipboard shelving.

11) Shelf Support (2)
Fitted to box beams and provides support and greater load capacity for shelving.

12) Column Protector
Minimises the force of forklift truck impact to a racking upright. See previous blog post on Column Guards.

13) Upright Protectors
Protects the lower section of XL uprights against fork truck collision damage.

14) Rack End Protector
Provides protection to the ends of racking.

15) Racking Signs
Clearly display caution and loading/safety notices and information relating to racking usages. See previous blog post on labelling.

16) Guide Rails
Allows for the safe and accurate guidance of trucks operating within racking, particularly with drive-in or narrow aisle applications.

17) Sprinkler Systems
Sprinkler Systems can be supported within the pallet racking structure.

18) Frame Cladding
A frame which sits at the far ends of your pallet racking to add extra support to the structure. It also helps to prevent items from falling from the racking.

19) Safety Mesh Screens
Also known as Anti Collapse Mesh. Safety Mesh Screens are fitted for safety and for the security of palletised loads. These are often fitted where a walkway or working area is adjacent to the racking.

20) P&D Stations
Pick and Deposit (P&D) stations are used at the end of racks to assist in load handling between trucks.

If you have any questions regarding your warehouse racking requirements please do not hesitate to contact us.

Website: www.dalviesystems.co.uk | Call: 0845 017 8866 | Email: info@dalviesystems.co.uk

Putting An End To Warehouse Tragedies

A Bradford firm has been ordered to pay £140,000 in fines and costs after they admitted safety failures regarding an unsecured racking system which crushed a 61 year old worker to death.

The reason for this incident, as stated in the court hearing, was that the company had no system in place to safely move or inspect racking, there were no load notices indicating maximum load capacities and the staff had limited training in the warehouse.

The collapsed racking which crushed an employee at a Bradform firm

This news highlights the importance of safety in the warehouse, particularly as lack lustre warehouse and safety management can result in injury and even fatality. At Dalvie Systems, we can offer a variety of products and services to ensure that your racking remains in tip top condition, and most importantly to prevent tragedies like this from occurring again.

Our safety services include:
- Annual racking safety surveys and inspections.
- Racking replacements and repair.
- Load notices to attach to racking to notify employees of the maximum loadings which decks can hold. These come FREE as part of our installation package when we install new racking on site.

Our safety products include:
- Column and barrier protection to protect racking uprights from being damaged by fork lifts.
- Anti collapse mesh which prevents objects from falling onto employees.

So, if you think something is amiss with your warehouse pallet racking then don't leave it to chance. Call 0845 017 8866 or email info@dalviesystems.co.uk to arrange a visit to your site and our experienced racking inspectors will source the problem and come up with the best and safest solution.

Website: www.dalviesystems.co.uk | Call: 0845 017 8866 | Email: info@dalviesystems.co.uk

KISS - Top Tip

Our last blog post concerned the importance of warehouse organisation, in particularly labelling. After some research into effective organisational practices, I came across the term KISS (and no I don't mean lip to lip contact, or the 70s rock band!)

KISS refers to 'Keep It Short & Simple' or as some people like to call it 'Keep It Simple Stupid', though I think I prefer the first saying.

When organising a warehouse, it is useful to set up pallet racking or shelving in rows which are then labelled. For example Row A, Row B, Row C, etc. This allows for a basic organisational system whereby different categories of products relate to a letter. So, as a very basic example if you operate a tool warehouse; screwdrivers are kept in Row A, spanners are kept along Row B, and hammers are kept along Row C.

Then as you go down a particular row, you can begin to seperate the shelves relating to different types of a product which would be labelled numerically A01 A02 A03 etc... In this case, A refers to the row and the number (01,02,03, etc) refers to the shelf or bay. This allows for a more specific way of organising and categorising your warehouse products as square ended screwdrivers would be kept in A01, hex ended screwdrivers in A02 and slot screwdrivers in A03. Simple.

In addition to this simple labelling method, remember to utilise a whiteboard or database for employees to refer to so that they know which types of products can be found in which aisles.

For more information about obtaining labels for your warehouse, please see our post from earlier this week called 'Love Your Labels!'

Website: www.dalviesystems.co.uk | Call: 0845 017 8866 | Email: info@dalviesystems.co.uk

Love Your Labels

Without organisation, the operations and systems within your warehouse could all fall apart. Organisation can be time consuming and, let's face it, quite an arduous task however it could also mean the difference between the success or failure of your business and is therefore not something to be overlooked.

Warehouse labelling systems utilise numbers, barcodes or colours to ensure that sections within your warehouse can be located quickly and efficiently. This results in an improved picking time and increased productivity. Typical labelling and organisational systems which you would expect to see in a warehouse include:

• Location labelling on shelving or pallet racking bays
• Aisle markers
• Hanging markers
• Damaged rack markers
• Magnetic and self adhesive labels
• Weight loading identification
• Magnetic and self adhesive label holders
• Easy wipe location markers
• Easy wipe racking strip
• Floor signalling and floor location markers
• Magnetic numbers and letters
• Linbin identification pockets and labels
• Stencils and marking paint
• Floor marking and anti slip tapes
• Standard safety signage
• Industrial tags

 

Now for the technical part, because we know how annoying it is when labels don't stick down properly, our pallet racking and shelving labels are manufactured to suit your specific requirements and use special adhesives suitable for either ambient or cold store temperatures. They can also be produced on a magnetic sheet which allows for easy relocation of your labels from one area of the warehouse to another if needed.

 

Many warehouses still operate with an unorganised system when it comes to locating items, which is not ideal as competitors are already ahead of the game, and their commitment to organisation could mean the difference between profit and loss. After all, when it comes to finding the precise location of an item would you rather be:

a) wandering around aimlessly trying to recall where you last saw the item, or

b) locating your item quickly by following an organised labelling system?

Please note this is a rhetorical question and the answer is of course, B!

 

So, if you feel that your warehouse could benefit from an improved organisational system, then call us on 0845 017 8866 and we can discuss your requirements. We understand that every warehouse is different and therefore your labelling systems can be tailormade to suit your needs.
 

Website: www.dalviesystems.co.uk | Call: 0845 017 8866 | Email: info@dalviesystems.co.uk

Inspect Your Racking

Racking inspections are carried out to ensure that your warehouse pallet racking is safe to use. An inspection can highlight any damages or problems with your racking which could (if not addressed properly) cause damage to your employees or your goods.

WHY CHOOSE DALVIE SYSTEMS FOR YOUR RACKING INSPECTION?

• Our inspectors are SEMA (Storage Equipment Manufacturers Association) approved
• Our inspectors have achieved the SARI qualification
• Our inspectors are experienced in the fields of warehousing and logistics

WHAT DOES A RACKING INSPECTION INVOLVE?

First of all, a detailed examination of the racking system will take place and any damage will be recorded by location using the SEMA traffic light system. (This system is used for recording risk by ensuring the easy prioritisation of remedial actions.)

The inspection typically looks at:
1) Beams, beam connectors, uprights, bracing members, locking pins, etc.
2) Footplates, securing bolts, column guards.
3) Condition of stored materials and pallets.
4) Floor condition
5) Signage
6) Any other relevant factors relating to specific site conditions

Once all of these areas have been inspected, a summary of damage by item type will then be compiled into a report in order to quote a repair estimation.

In addition to the previous points, the racking inspection will also include:

• Photographs where appropriate
• A review of current internal damage reporting and recording systems
• A review of the damage history with identification of repeat damage and recommended changes to be made (where possible).
• Recommended changes to operating patterns or training if appropriate
• Issue of immediate 'Red Risk' notices during the inspection visit where a seriously damaged equipment is seen. This form of damage requires immediate notice.

Website: www.dalviesystems.co.uk | Call: 0845 017 8866 | Email: info@dalviesystems.co.uk

Dalvie Warehouse Dictionary: Racking types explained

If you're unsure about which pallet racking type is suitable for your warehouse, then this blog post is definitely for you. Here's the low down on the different racking types from Dalvie Systems...

Wide Aisle Adjustable Racking

• Adjustable pallet racking is the most widely used storage system for all palletised and non-pallatised loads. 
• Single or double sided runs of racking are separated by wide aisles which can be sized to suit the customer’s existing fork-lift trucks.

Double Deep Racking

• Double deep racks are created by placing two double sided runs together. 
• Pallets are stored two deep and are accessed using special trucks with pantograph or telescopic forks.

Narrow Aisle Racking

• Narrow aisle racks consist of the same basic components as conventional racking but with runs placed closer together eliminating the wasted space of a wide aisle. 
• The pallets can be stored to a greater height to maximise all available cubic space.

Drive-In/Drive-Through Racking

• Drive-in racking is used where high density storage is required. 
• It is frequently used in facilities with a low number of product lines. 
• The drive-through systems allows pallets to be loaded or retrieved from either side.

Mobile Racking

• Mobile racking is a specialist high density system often designed for long-term storage of pallets or other heavy duty goods. 
• The racking runs are mounted on mobile bases, which run on rails up and down the storage area. 
• The base is electronically driven and is normally kept closed leaving one aisle for access.

Muli-Tier Racking

• Multi-tier racks are created using adjustable pallet racking. 
• Additional storage floors can be incorporated into the rack with walkways to allow pedestrian access for order picking. This maximises all available headroom and is ideal for storing a wide variety of packaged goods for hand picking. 

 

Racking your brains for a warehouse solution?

Choosing the correct warehouse pallet racking is crucial for ensuring your warehouse processes run smoothly. Dalvie Systems boasts a wide range of pallet racking solutions to suit your warehouse needs. In addition to this, we can provide a whole host of additional pallet racking accessories including: anti collapse mesh which prevent objects from falling from your racking, column guards which fix securely into the floor and protect the base of your racking and Carton Versi Flow which can improve the picking process in your warehouse drastically.

WHY CHOOSE DALVIE?

- UK manufactured products.

- Free quotation.

- Free on site survey.

- We keep you in the loop throughout the whole process (from drawing up plans of your warehouse in CAD to delivering and installing the racking) to ensure you are thoroughly satisfied.

- Once your racking is up and running, we can carry out racking inspections throughout the year to ensure it meets healthy & safety standards.

For more information about how pallet racking and racking accessories can improve your warehouse processes, call us to speak to our trained advisors on 0845 017 8866 or email info@dalviesystems.co.uk.

Warehouse Safety 101 - Falling objects overhead

Wherever there are objects and pallets above ground, there are risks of falling objects. In some areas, this risk may be greater than in others and therefore it is imperative that the area is clearly indicated and that unauthorised personel do not enter that area.

To prevent items falling from your pallet racking, Tom McKelvie (Director of Dalvie Systems) suggests Anti-Collapse mesh which acts as a safety net for items and prevents accidents whilst handling and storing goods in the warehouse.
We can offer a variety of panel sizes and mesh apertures. In addition to this, various size stand-off brackets are also available.

Anti-Collapse mesh is certainly worth investing in to protect your employees.

For a FREE on site quotation, call 0845 017 8866 or email us.

Safe proof your racking with column guards

Does your warehouse meet HSE requirements? HSE documentation states that 'where racking is likely to be struck by lift trucks and other vehicles it should be protected.'

Our racking protection systems (or column guards) can be easily fitted to the base of your pallet racking uprights and will ensure that any impact from warehouse vehicles is deflected immediately with no damage being caused.

Pallet racking and column guard protection fitted for a customer by Dalvie Systems

For more information about how we can help safe proof your pallet racking from vehicle damage, email info@dalviesystems.co.uk or call 0845 017 8866.

Make the most of your storage space!

Is your workplace cluttered?
Do you need help finding the right storage solution for you?

At Dalvie we supply a variety of space-saving, storage solutions including:

• Lockers
• Garment Dispensers & Collectors
• Standard & Security Cupboards
• Hazardous Substance Cupboards
• Workstations
• Industrial workstations
• Computer workstations
• Just economy workstations
• Workbenches
• Small parts storage consisting of louvre panels and plastic containers
• Steel bins and racks
• Visible storage cabinets
• Turntable assemblies
• Cardboard storage trays
• Stacking storage boxes
• Aluminium tool chests
• Transit cases
• Plastic boxes and box pallets
• Foldable containers
• Storage racks
• Security cages
• Shelving
• Standard duty shelving
• Heavy duty shelving
• Document storage bays
• Galvanised economy shelving
• Stormor mono and solo shelving which is BIOCOTE protected (and therefore inhibits the growth of lethal bacteria such as MRSA and E.Coli.)
• Longspan shelving
• Wire shelving
• Hygienic shelving
• Adjustable shelving
• Cantilever shelving
• Pallet racking
• Plastic or aluminium storage systems
• Cloakroom and leisure products
• Coat stands and garment rails
• Wire mesh lockers
• Heavy duty wire mesh storage
• Laptop storage and charging facilities
• Mobile storage cabinets and cupboards

So, if you're struggling for ideas about how you can make the most of your storage space, call or email us and we can help you find the right solution.

Warehouse Safety 101 - Slips and Trips

Slips and trips are a serious problem in warehousing and storage. They are seen as trivial health and safety issues however are the most common due to the number of materials which can be slipped on or tripped over.

Items that can be slipped on include:
- Water
- Oil
- Cleaning products
- Dry powders
- Food
- Wrapping
- Label backing
- Plastic bags

Items that can trip you up include:
- Uneven floor surfaces
- Goods stored incorrectly
- Waste packaging
- Banded strap loops
- Pallets

Don't slip - preventative measures

- To prevent liquids from being knocked over and harming individuals, store them in our specially designed COSHH Cabinets. We provide a range of cabinets which are robustly constructed and provide safe storage for flammable liquids and other hazardous materials. All cabinets & bins featured are of welded construction and come supplied with drip trays and warning labels.

- To prevent slips on label backing, packaging and other rogue materials which find their way to the warehouse floor, it is essential that good housekeeping is employed within the workplace and employees are encourage to put waste materials in the bin straight away. We provide a range of bins which can be used within the warehouse or outside. These can be found on pages 446 and 447 in our 'Solutions for the Workplace' catalogue. (Request a catalogue here!)

Don't trip - preventative measures

- To prevent trips in the warehouse it is essential that goods, pallets and other items are stored away correctly. We boast a range of pallet racking, shelving and cupboards which can be used to store items neatly and safely in your warehouse and in turn remove the danger of potential injuries. For a free quotation for a pallet racking or shelving installation in your warehouse call 0845 017 8866 or email info@dalviesystems.co.uk.

Visit our website for a range of specifications regarding our pallet racking, shelving and other products.

Product of the week #9 - Carton Versi Flow

Have you ever considered that your warehouse pallet racking could benefit from a bolt-on product that could aid the speed of your picking process?

Carton Versi Flow is an economical and versatile product which increases storage capacity whilst providing a more accessible and easy-to-manage routine for picking cartons and totes. The product, which we have recently installed at a Jaguar site, provides instant carton flow with lift in/lift out versality - a system that is ideal for fast-paced warehouse work.

The installation of Versi Flow for Jaguar Landrover

The recent project at Jaguar Landrover involved the installation of the Versi Flow product into their existing pallet racking. As you can see from the image above, the racking is now set up for them to use, complete with bays of Versi Flow systems. Upgrading your warehouse management system has never been easier!

Rollers help to improve the speed and ease of the picking process.

For more information about Carton Versi Flow call 0845 017 8866 or email info@dalviesystems.co.uk. For information regarding other products visit www.dalviesystems.co.uk.

Racking and Shelving

http://www.dalviesystems.co.uk/

Welcome to the Dalvie Systems blog

We now have a company blog and twitter account.

Dalvie Systems have been supplying businesses with storage equipment and office furniture for 12 years and are based at Hilton Hall in Essington, Wolverhampton.

We supply a range of products from pallet racking, mezzanine flooring, shelving systems, lockers and cupboards, trucks and trolleys, storage containers, hazardous storage, workbenches and specialist products. We also provide office solutions to suit your company's needs and have dealt with many clients ranging from smaller businesses to blue chip companies.

Is your warehouse in need of high quality pallet-racking to store your products?
Is your office in need of an upgrade and you want to know exactly how to make the most of your office space?
Call 0845 017 8866 or email us at info@dalviesystems.co.uk and we can provide you with answers.

Or failing that visit our website for more information http://www.dalviesystems.co.uk/