Rack Group welcomes Chris Rodger to lead the sales team
We're delighted to announce the latest addition to our team: Chris Rodger, who joins us as our new Head of Sales. With over two decades of experience in the industrial workspace, particularly within the material handling sector, Chris brings a wealth of expertise to our company.
Here at Rack Group, we pride ourselves on delivering comprehensive racking solutions, encompassing design, installation, repair, and training services. With Chris on board, we're excited to further enhance our offerings and continue providing exceptional service to our valued clients.
Chris's extensive background in sales leadership, coupled with his deep understanding of our industry, positions him as a valuable asset to our team. His commitment to excellence aligns perfectly with our company values, and we're confident that his contributions will help drive our sales strategy forward.
Before joining Rack Group, Chris held prominent roles within the material handling sector, where he demonstrated a strong track record of driving growth and fostering strategic partnerships. We're thrilled to welcome him to our team and are eager to see the positive impact he will make.
"I am excited to join Rack Group and contribute to the company's continued success," said Chris Rodger. "Rack Group has a strong reputation for delivering top-notch solutions, and I look forward to leveraging my experience to further enhance our sales efforts and exceed customer expectations."
As part of the IWS Group, Rack Group remains dedicated to delivering innovative solutions and outstanding service to our clients. Chris's appointment reaffirms our commitment to excellence and our ongoing pursuit of customer satisfaction.
"We are delighted to welcome Chris to the Rack Group family," said Stuart Ovington, Managing Director at Rack Group. "His extensive experience and passion for delivering results will undoubtedly strengthen our sales team and reinforce our position as a leader in the racking industry. We look forward to the valuable contributions Chris will make as we continue to innovate and grow."
We're excited about the opportunities that lie ahead with Chris on board, and we look forward to the continued growth and success of Rack Group under his leadership.
Rack Group, is thrilled to announce that our racking inspection and maintenance training courses have received the esteemed Assured by RoSPA Qualifications.
In this blog post, we will provide you with practical insights, expert advice, and proven strategies to help you unlock the hidden potential of your warehouse space.
As the demands of the modern supply chain evolve, many businesses face the challenge of accommodating different pallet types due to their regional or international operations.
Sheffield, UK – 07 11 2023 – Rack Group, a leading provider of warehouse safety solutions, is thrilled to announce the expansion of its international distribution network through a new partnership with Lagerinnredning AS, a prominent Norwegian company specialising in warehouse optimisation and equipment.
This strategic alliance marks a significant milestone for Rack Group as it extends its reach into the Norwegian market, offering its state-of-the-art racking impact protection solutions to a broader audience. Lagerinnredning’s commitment to quality and customer service aligns with Rack Group’s mission to deliver unparalleled safety products to the warehousing and logistics industry.
“We are delighted to welcome Lagerinnredning into our family of distributors,” said Stuart Ovington, Managing Director of Rack Group. “Their deep understanding of the Norwegian market and dedication to delivering high-quality solutions make them the perfect partner to represent our Rack Armour® solutions. We are confident that this partnership will ensure Norwegian businesses have access to the best safety products to protect their staff and infrastructure.”
Tim Solsvik, Managing Director of Lagerinnredning AS, also expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “It is with great pleasure that we join forces with Rack Group. Their innovative Rack Armour® complement our existing products and services perfectly, and we are excited to bring such a reputable brand to our customers in Norway. We believe that the combination of Rack Group’s expertise in warehouse safety solutions and our local market knowledge will result in a highly beneficial relationship for both parties and, most importantly, for our customers.”
Sushil Kumar, Regional Sales Manager of Rack Group said “We are very excited to work with Tim, and support Lagerinnredning AS with their ambitious growth plans, within the Norwegian market”
The collaboration is to start immediately, with Lagerinnredning AS ready to distribute Rack Armour®. The partnership is expected to improve the availability of premium safety solutions for Norwegian businesses and contribute to safer work environments across the region.
Rack Group specializes in providing high-quality, durable safety solutions for the warehousing industry. With a focus on innovation and customer service, Rack Group has established itself as a leader in the field of warehouse safety, offering a wide range of products designed to protect both personnel and infrastructure including racking protection, bumper barriers and safety gates.
About Rack Armour®
Made from ballistics grade plastic, the Rack Armour® outer shell is shaped to divert impact energy around the rack leg instead of through it. Any remaining impact energy is absorbed by the interior foam until it is diffused. This twin action protection uniquely helps to maintain the structural integrity of the racking system.
Fitted in seconds and last for years, Rack Armour® requires no maintenance, and is rust and fade resistant. It is also fully recyclable and suitable for use in food production facilities.
Lagerinnredning AS is a Norwegian company with a strong focus on warehouse optimization and equipment supply. Renowned for their expertise in creating efficient and safe storage environments, they offer a comprehensive range of products and services tailored to meet the unique needs of their customers.
Richard Harden is appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of IWS Group. This strategic move is part of IWS Group’s commitment to fostering innovation and sustained growth, ensuring its continued leadership within the market.
With an extensive leadership background, Richard Harden brings a wealth of experience to IWS Group, having previously held CEO and MD positions at renowned companies such as Stuart Turner Ltd and WILO. Additionally, he served as President of the trade organization BPMA. Throughout his career, Richard has excelled in enhancing top-line growth for private equity-backed firms by forging strategic partnerships and implementing innovative sales and marketing strategies that have led to substantial growth milestones.
Under Richard’s capable leadership, a central focus will be on harnessing the collaborative strengths of IWS Group to provide customers in the industrial workspace with comprehensive, seamlessly integrated solutions. This approach aims to elevate customer satisfaction while reinforcing the overall impact and effectiveness of IWS Group’s offerings within the market.
Commenting on his new position, Richard said, “It’s clear IWS Group is a very ambitious company with a strong track record of organic and acquisition-driven success and a clear vision for growth, which is what attracted me to the position. The future of the group excites me, and I am delighted to lead it into its next phase of growth and innovation.”
“We’re extremely excited to have Richard on board as our new CEO,” said Neil Stephenson, Chief Financial Officer for IWS Group. “Richard’s extensive leadership background and his proven track record of accelerating market share aligns perfectly with our strategic vision for IWS Group. His dynamic leadership and innovative approach is just what we need to navigate the evolving market landscape and propel IWS Group to new heights. We look forward to the fresh perspective and the boundless energy he brings to our team, and we’re confident that under his leadership, IWS Group will continue to thrive and achieve great success.”
About IWS Group:
IWS Group is a family of market-leading product brands, manufacturers, and service companies that deliver essential services and supplies to the logistics, material handling, and various industrial sectors across Europe and beyond. The current IWS Group portfolio comprises Beaverswood®, Brandsafe, Rack Group, and Anco Storage, each of which contributes to the group’s enduring success.
As an industrial storage business located in Yorkshire, you have a unique opportunity to tap into Rack Group’s valuable services that can transform local businesses and the way you manage your warehouse, and storage systems.
Rack Group, head quartered in Barnsley has decades of experience and expertise in industrial racking, offering a range of benefits that can significantly benefit your business operations. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages of partnering with Rack Group’s industrial racking experts right in your backyard.
Local Presence, Global Expertise
Rack Group’s roots are firmly planted in Yorkshire, as a trusted local partner. However, their expertise extends far beyond the region. With over 40 years of industry experience, Rack Group has served businesses across the UK and beyond.
This means you get the best of both worlds: the personal touch of a local partner and the world-class knowledge of a global expert.
Lightning-Fast Response Times
Rack Group’s reputation for being fast and responsive is one of their standout qualities. In the fast-paced world of warehousing, time is of the essence Having Rack Group just around the corner translates to lightning-fast response times. Whether it’s urgent inspections, timely repairs, or immediate consultations, their local presence ensures that help is never too far away.
This rapid response capability minimises disruptions to your daily operations and keeps your warehouse running smoothly. Rack Group also provide a range of dedicated training courses which can easily be provide either at the dedicated training centre in Barnsley or onsite.
Cost-Effective Collaboration
One of the many benefits of working with Rack Group as a local business is the reduction in travel cost and time. With their close proximity to your location, you can eliminate the need for extensive travel or transportation costs associated with sourcing expertise from afar.
This cost efficiency can have a positive impact on your bottom line, allowing you to allocate resources more effectively.
Boosting Local Economy
By choosing Rack Group, you’re not only optimising your warehouse operations but also supporting a local business in Yorkshire. Your collaboration contributes to the growth and sustainability of the local economy, fostering a sense of community and shared prosperity.
It’s a win-win scenario where your business benefits, and so does the region you call home.
Tailored Solutions with Local Insight
Rack Group understand the unique challenges and opportunities that businesses in Yorkshire face. This local insight allows them to offer tailored solutions that are specifically designed to sourcing new premises which requires local knowledge, and regional considerations.
Sustainability
Rack Group is committed to sustainability, and their local presence aligns perfectly with environmentally responsible practices. With reduced travel distances for their team, you’re helping to lower carbon emissions and support eco-friendly initiatives.
Rack Group further contributes to a greener future as their barrier solutions are non-toxic and fully recyclable. By choosing Rack Group as your partner it will bolster your dedication to sustainability while also benefiting from a greener approach to business.
No Nonsense Cost Savings Approach
Rack Group’s services are designed to save you both time and money. By optimising your storage solutions and extending the lifespan of your racking systems, they help you avoid costly repairs and replacements.
Their proactive approach means that potential issues are identified and addressed before they become expensive problems.
Trusted Neighbourhood Experts
Having Rack Group as your local industrial racking experts means you’re working with a team deeply ingrained in the Yorkshire community. They’re not just service providers; they’re trusted neighbours who understand the importance of local business relationships.
When you choose Rack Group as your local industrial racking experts in Yorkshire, you unlock a multitude of benefits that go beyond traditional service providers. With cost-effective collaboration, rapid response times, and the support of a local business, you’re making a smart choice for your warehouse operations. Your partnership with Rack Group not only optimizes your business but also bolsters the local economy and contributes to a sustainable future for all local businesses.
For local businesses, whether you need assistance with racking inspections, protection, repairs, installation or training, Rack Group’s industrial racking experts are ready to help. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to transform your business with Rack Group’s expertise and local services!
For more information on The Rack Group’s products and services, please contact us today for further details.
IWS Group, has impact tested its Brandsafe® range of polymer safety barriers according to the rigorous PAS 13 code of practice, which has been third-party accredited by TÜV Nord, an internationally recognised seal of quality.
The testing process measures the impact resilience of these barriers, enabling customers to make informed choices about the right systems for their needs. By adhering to PAS 13, IWS Group is among a select few companies committed to the highest safety benchmark in the industry today.
Testing of the barrier range took place in April 2023 at an IWS subsidiary, Rack Group in Barnsley, where the barriers are designed and manufactured. A custom-built pendulum was used to strike the barriers at various points to measure the resilience of the barrier. How much force the barrier could take, as well as how much it deflected, was recorded on-site using high-spec measuring equipment.
Commenting on what the testing means for customers, Susy Keating, MD at Brandsafe said, “This testing is an important step for customers looking to purchase impact protection barriers for their workplace. Knowing what impact forces a barrier can take, as well as ensuring that data is independently certified by a reputable third party, is a vital factor in choosing the right barrier. For too long impact protection has been over-engineered, over-priced and overly complicated. It’s time to reset the bar on what impact protection ultimately comes down to, which is keeping people and products safe.”
Stuart Ovington, MD of Rack Group said, “TÜV Nord independently verifying that our testing abided by the PAS 13 guidelines serves as a testimonial to our teams here at IWS Group, as well as the quality of our polymer barrier range. Not every barrier manufacturer undertakes product testing to this level, so we are proud to be amongst the industry leaders. Our barriers are shown to be high performing, long-lasting and can withstand greater impacts than similar, industry-leading products. In addition, we can create bespoke designs quickly to suit individual needs and, with short lead times, provide a cost-effective solution at the highest standard.”
Matt Mason, Group Design Manager at IWS Group added, “We undertook this activity to prove the capability of our barrier range and, with TÜV Nord witnessing, it confirms that our internal testing procedure adheres to the industry code of practice.
Testing is conducted on a purpose-built impact pendulum rig designed and commissioned entirely by IWS Group, which simulates real world impact energies of material handling vehicles travelling at different speeds and provides physical proof to the capability of our products.
The pendulum strikes barriers at various pre-determined locations to measure the level of energy the barriers can withstand, how much deflection they display under impact and how much force is transferred to the ground fixings and concrete. Testing also defines the distance behind barriers that is considered the ‘safe zone’ for the barrier to deflect in to, which is identified during installation of the barrier by visual floor markings.
All testing was conducted with UKAS calibrated measuring equipment such as high-speed cameras, torque wrenches, load cells and industrial weigh scales to ensure confidence in every result witnessed.”
To find out more about the Brandsafe® polymer barrier range and the impact safety testing that has been carried out, visit brandsafeprotection.com or request the technical data by emailing sales@brandsafeprotection.com.
Safety, simplified.
How are these barriers designed to withstand impact?
The flexible barrier design and polymer material are engineered to absorb the load of impact, away from a vehicle and ground fixings to reduce damage and repair time, unlike metal barriers.
The benefits from such a design means customers will lower their repairs and maintenance cost compared to metal barriers and reduce vehicle impact damage and downtime.
Maintenance is lowered as these polymer barriers don’t rust, corrode, fade or require re-painting, and only need replacing after frequent, major impacts have occurred.
They are also fully recyclable, non-toxic and suitable for use in food production and freezer environments.
About IWS Group
IWS Group is a family of market-leading product brands, manufacturers and service companies, providing essential services and supplies to the logistics, material handling and other industrial sectors across Europe and beyond. The group consists of four companies:
The official best practice for safety barriers and traffic management in industrial facilities
PAS 13 Code of Practice for Safety Barriers was developed by the British Standards Institution (BSI), and is published as the Publicly Available Specification (PAS) 13, Code of practice for safety barriers used in traffic management within workplace environments with test methods for safety barrier impact resilience.
What is PAS 13 code of practice?
PAS 13 is the only code of practice for industrial safety barriers that is recognised globally. It is intended to be used as a reference for engineers, architects, contractors, health and safety professionals, and other stakeholders involved in the design, construction, deployment and maintenance of safety barriers. The code is based on the principles of risk assessment and recommends selecting the appropriate safety barriers based on the potential hazards and risks.
Compliance with PAS 13 can help ensure that safety barriers are effective in protecting people and assets from potential hazards and minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.
Why was PAS 13 created?
The consequences of workplace accidents and injuries can be severe. They can result in lost productivity, downtime, and increased maintenance and repair costs. Moreover, they can lead to long-term health problems for employees and even legal and financial liabilities for the company.
According to Health and Safety Executive statistics approximately 50 people are killed each year, and more than 5,000 injured, in accidents involving workplace transport. PAS 13 outlines the current good practice traffic management procedures for a workplace and provides a standard for the safety barriers within them.
Mixing vehicles and pedestrians increases the risk of potential accidents, so it is imperative that steps are taken to minimize the associated risks. PAS 13 gives recommendations for impact resilience, dimensions and positions of safety barriers in the workplace; guidance on how to manage the risks associated with vehicles within the workplace; and specifies the criteria for testing the impact resilience of a barrier.
Who created PAS 13?
PAS 13 was created and published by the British Standards Institution in association with the Health and Safety Executive. The BSI worked with a steering group made up of many high-profile blue-chip companies. These companies were able to offer first-hand experience of safety across a range of industries, to create a consistent and transferable set of guidelines for barrier installation.
Overview of PAS 13
PAS 13 is a code of practice for industrial safety barriers that provides comprehensive guidance on good practice for using industrial safety barriers. As mentioned earlier, it is an official document produced by the British Standards Institution (BSI) and is globally recognised as the most reliable code of practice for industrial safety barriers.
PAS 13 is broken down into two sections. The first section provides Health and Safety and Operations managers with detailed guidance on the correct application of safety barriers at busy industrial facilities. This section includes recommendations on how to select the appropriate barrier system based on the level of risk, traffic flow, and environmental conditions.
The second section of PAS 13 is primarily for safety barrier manufacturers. It covers how to conduct standardised testing of safety barriers for strength and durability and record results in a way that is clear and transparent for customers. This section of PAS 13 helps manufacturers ensure that their products meet the required strength and durability standards, giving customers peace of mind when selecting their barrier systems.
Advantages of using impact barriers in industrial workplaces
The use of impact barriers in industrial workplaces can have numerous benefits, including:
Racking protection
Impact barriers can also provide protection for racking and other storage systems. In busy industrial facilities, forklifts and other vehicles can cause damage to racking, which can be costly to repair or replace. Impact barriers can absorb the force of collisions, minimizing damage and reducing maintenance and repair costs.
Pedestrian protection
Impact barriers can be used to create safe pedestrian walkways in busy industrial facilities. By separating pedestrian areas from areas where vehicles are operating, the risk of accidents is greatly reduced. This can help to create a safer working environment and reduce the risk of accidents.
Forklift damage
Forklifts are a common cause of damage in industrial facilities, and collisions with other vehicles, racking, and equipment can be costly to repair. Impact barriers can help to absorb the force of collisions, reducing the risk of damage to forklifts and other vehicles.
Maintenance and repair costs
By reducing the risk of damage to racking, equipment, and vehicles, impact barriers can also help to reduce maintenance and repair costs. In addition, impact barriers themselves are designed to be durable and long-lasting, reducing the need for frequent replacement.
Employee safety
One of the most significant benefits of using impact barriers is the increased safety of employees. Impact barriers are designed to protect employees from accidents caused by moving machinery, falling objects, and collisions with vehicles. By providing a physical barrier between employees and potential hazards, the risk of injury is greatly reduced.
The use of impact barriers in industrial workplaces can have numerous benefits, including increased employee safety, protection for racking and other storage systems, safe pedestrian walkways, reduced damage to forklifts and other vehicles, and lower maintenance and repair costs. By investing in impact barriers and following the guidelines set out in PAS 13, companies can create a safer working environment and improve the efficiency of their operations.
PAS 13 benefits
Health and safety managers, procurement specialists, directors, facility managers, project managers and site safety leaders will benefit from PAS 13. It will also likely be of interest to those who want to apply traffic management procedures and those who test and measure the performance of safety barriers will also benefit from PAS, and manufacturers and distributors of safety barriers.
Here are some of the ways Implementing PAS 13 can greatly improve the use of impact barriers in industrial workplaces:
Clear guidelines for barrier selection: PAS 13 provides detailed guidelines for the correct application of safety barriers in industrial facilities. This includes information on the selection of barriers that best fit the needs of the facility, taking into account factors such as vehicle types, traffic flow, and the potential for impact.
Standardised testing for barrier strength and durability: The second section of PAS 13 covers how to conduct standardised testing of safety barriers for strength and durability, and record results in a way that is clear and transparent for customers. This ensures that all barriers used in the facility meet a consistent standard for safety and durability.
Improved traffic management: The guidelines set out in PAS 13 can also help to improve traffic management in industrial facilities. By using barriers to separate pedestrian walkways from areas where vehicles are operating, the risk of accidents is greatly reduced. This can help to create a safer working environment and improve the efficiency of operations by reducing downtime due to accidents.
Safety: The primary objective of impact barriers is to prevent accidents and protect workers from hazards. By manufacturers following the recommendations and requirements set out in PAS 13, customers can ensure that their safety barriers are properly designed and installed to provide maximum protection for workers.
Risk assessment: PAS 13 emphasises the importance of conducting a thorough risk assessment before installing safety barriers. This helps businesses identify potential hazards and ensure that their safety barriers are designed to address these specific risks.
Cost-effectiveness: Properly designed and installed safety barriers can help reduce the risk of accidents and damage to equipment and products, which can ultimately result in cost savings for businesses.
In conclusion, the use of impact barriers in industrial workplaces is essential for protecting employees and equipment from harm. The implementation of the PAS 13 code of conduct for industrial safety barriers provides a reliable and effective means of ensuring that the correct barriers are selected and used in the workplace. PAS 13 provides clear guidelines for barrier selection, standardised testing for barrier strength and durability, improved traffic management, reduced maintenance and repair costs, and compliance with safety regulations.
By following the guidelines set out in PAS 13, companies can create a safer working environment and improve the efficiency of their operations. Investing in high-quality impact barriers that meet PAS 13 standards not only reduces the risk of accidents but also protects the company from liability and reduces maintenance and repair costs over time.
Therefore, we highly recommend that all industrial workplaces use the PAS 13 code of conduct when selecting and implementing impact barriers. As a leading provider of impact protection barriers, our company offers a range of high-quality barriers that meet PAS 13 guidance.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you improve safety in your industrial workplace and view our range of barriers.
Rack Group and Brandsafe, both part of the IWS Group, have successfully impact tested their range of polymer safety barriers according to the PAS13 code of practice.
The testing measures the impact resilience of the barrier products, ensuring customers can confidently choose the right barrier for their industrial workplaces. By choosing to adhere to PAS13, the only code of practice for traffic management within workplace environments, IWS Group are one of only a handful of companies committing to the highest benchmark in the industry today.
Testing of the barrier range recently took place at Rack Group in Barnsley, where the barriers are designed and manufactured. A custom-built pendulum was used to strike the barriers at various points to measure the resilience of the barrier. How much force the barrier could take, as well as how much it deflected was recorded.
Commenting on what the testing means for distributors and customers, Stuart Ovington, MD of Rack Group said “This testing is an important step for distributors to be confident in providing barriers that adhere to a high standard and for customers looking to purchase impact protection barriers for their workplace. Knowing what impact forces a barrier can take, is a vital first step in choosing the right barrier. Not every barrier manufacturer undertakes testing to this standard, so we are proud to be amongst the industry leaders. We will also be shortly receiving TUV Nord, who will be attending our testing and reviewing our test data to ensure it abides by the PAS13 guidelines.”
A weighted pendulum was used to strike the barriers at various points to measure the resilience of the barrier. How much force the barrier could take, as well as how much it deflected was recorded. These measurements enable customers to choose the right type of barrier for their warehouse, depending on the amount of impact they need to withstand. The testing also advises the distance behind the barrier that is considered the ‘safe zone’, which is identified following installation of the barrier.
Polymer barrier range from IWS Group has been tested in line with the PAS13 code of practice
Range includes pedestrian, racking and low level protections barriers, plus bollards and a metal guardrail
Testing took place at Rack Group Training Centre in Barnsley, where the barriers are manufactured and shipped to customers
Teams from IWS Group companies Brandsafe and Rack Group carried out the testing using a custom built pendulum
Testing took place over 5 days where each barrier was tested multiple times in accordance with PAS13, the code of practice for safety barriers
The barriers were hit with the pendulum at the end post and in the middle of the rail
High speed cameras, industrial scales and load cells were used to verify the equipment
PAS13 is the industry’s only code of practice that advises on the types of barriers that are suitable for use within the workplace to segregate vehicles and pedestrians. It also includes guidance on how safety barriers should be tested to demonstrate their resilience.
The pendulum tests are weighted to mimic the impact force experienced by material handling equipment colliding with safety barriers.
KEEPING PEOPLE, PRODUCTS, AND PROPERTY SAFE
WHY PAS 13 SHOULD BE USED IN ALL INDUSTRIAL WORKPLACES
At the Rack Group we have a "no-nonsense guarantee which is:
You pay only for what you need Don’t pay for over engineered or non-accredited products.
Best-fit solutions for your organisation Expert end-to-end service, from design and build to install and repair, with access to all the leading product brands.
Keeping safety simple, practical and cost effective.
Rack Armour® returns to ProMat as the world’s leading impact protection for racking uprights, with a new USA range of industrial products, already used widely across Europe.
Rack Armour®, from its location on Stand N6636, will return to ProMAT to display innovative products and solutions for the logistics, material handling, and industrial sectors across the USA. These range from impact protection of racking and storage systems to warehouse recycling solutions, labelling, visual management signage, and more.
Along with Lean Inc, USA master distributor, Rack Armour® will exhibit the world’s best-selling upright protection solution which guarantees an 80% reduction in racking damage. Made from ballistics grade plastic, the outer shell of Rack Armour® is shaped to divert impact energy around the rack leg instead of through it. Any remaining impact energy is absorbed by the interior foam until it’s diffused. This twin action protection uniquely helps maintain the structural integrity of the racking system – which saves tens of thousands of pounds in damage repair costs. Lean Inc will be happy to discuss USA reseller opportunities for this fantastic product which provides an 800% proven customer ROI.
Beaverswood®, a leading manufacturer of visual management and recycling solutions, will be on hand to showcase its latest products to potential USA resellers, such as the award-winning racksack® mini. Available in many sizes, this waste segregation solution is perfect for shelving, smaller racking areas, and workbenches, picking stations, desks, and more. Additionally, Modulean® rack end shadow boards, an innovative way to transform redundant end-of-aisle racking space into working space, will be displayed. All of this, plus Beaverswood®’s well-known offering of high-quality warehouse labels, aisle and bay markers, document display, and floor marking, will be on show.
Rack Armour® and Beaverswood® are part of IWS Group, a group of industry-leading companies, cutting-edge in their own fields of expertise, while working collaboratively to provide outstanding services and solutions in the industrial workplace. Lean Inc is the master distributor in the USA and is actively looking to onboard more distributors across the USA for both Rack Armour® and Beaverswood®. We will have several representatives from Lean Inc, Rack Armour®, and Beaverswood® on our stand, ready to explain how these innovative products can best support your organisation.
The Great British summertime might be a little... unpredictable, at times. Sun, wind, rain, hail, and anything else mother nature sends our way. But we are usually guaranteed at least a few weeks of warmth and sunshine sometime between May and September.
If you are working outside, you might rejoice in some much-needed warmth. But what about the dangers?
We have covered the risks of winter working before, and the cold. But what about summer working, is that safe? In addition to the risks you already need to control, working outside in hot weather brings two additional hazards:
• Sun
• Heat
A bit of sunshine isn't a bad thing. And it's certainly nice to feel warm. Working outdoors can be more enjoyable in the summer. But the sun and heat can also be dangerous if we don't protect ourselves.
Sun Exposure and Working Outside
The sun can make you feel great. You might go on holiday to get even more of it. For many people, a bit of sunshine is a great thing. But top up your vitamin D and not your tan, because working outdoors can expose your skin to more sun than is good for you.
It seems easy to get caught out by the sun when working outdoors. We didn't expect it. We forgot to pack the sunscreen on our way out the door. Perhaps because heatwaves don't happen as often as we would like them in the UK. Or maybe because we have other things on our mind when we go to work.
Short term skin damage from high levels of sun exposure can cause sunburn. This can be painful and uncomfortable for weeks as skin blisters and peels. Even a gradual tan will speed up the ageing of your skin over the long term.
One of the more serious dangers of sun exposure is skin cancer. Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. And UV light from the sun can cause it. The British Skin Foundation says that 40,000 new cases of skin cancer are reported each year. The NHS reports that more than 100,000 new cases of non-melanoma skin cancer are diagnosed each year in the UK.
Steps To Reduce Risk Of Overexposure To UV
Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) light is the main cause of non-melanoma skin cancer. UV light comes from the sun, as well as from artificial tanning sunbeds and sunlamps.
As an outdoor worker, it is hard to completely avoid the sun when it's out. But you can take steps to protect your skin and avoid over-exposure. This will lower your risks from some of the more harmful effects:
• Stay in the shade when possible
• Use a high factor sunscreen on any exposed skin (the higher the SPF the better)
• Re-apply sunscreen throughout the day
• Wear a hat
• Wear a top and clothing that covers the skin (especially any areas without sunscreen)
• Take regular breaks out of the sun
Working In The Heat And Heat Stress
This is the UK. How hot does it really get? Is heat a real problem? Well, yes. Especially at work. Because you're not on holiday, able to cool off in the pool or an airconditioned hotel room (unless you happen to be working on a holiday resort).
You're at work. You might be doing a really intense physical task, which is hard enough in a cool environment. Add extra heat to the mix, you're going to get hot and sweaty. You might need to wear extra PPE to protect you from other hazards of the job, which might prevent you from sweating properly and cooling off.
“Heat stress occurs when the body’s means of controlling its internal temperature starts to fail. As well as air temperature, factors such as work rate, humidity and clothing worn while working may lead to heat stress. Therefore, it may not be obvious to someone passing through the workplace that there is a risk of heat stress."
HSE Heat stress
And heat stress can be serious. It can make you feel unwell, lack concentration, get muscle cramps, faint. You can develop heat exhaustion, feeling tired and sick, get a headache and feel clammy. At its most serious, heat stroke can bring confusion, convulsions, loss of consciousness and can even be fatal.
Working Outside In The Heat
If you are working outside in the heat, you can take steps to minimise the risk of heat stress and keep cool. Here are some top tips:
• Keep hydrated
• Regular breaks
• Cool down
• Work in the shade
• Plan your work
First, stay hydrated. Cold drinks will both keep you cool and replace the water lost through sweating. You should take regular breaks out of the sun and heat, to give your body a chance to cool down and recover.
If you can work in the shade where it is cooler, do so. You can also plan your work so that more intensive tasks take place early or late when the temperature is lower.
You made need to make extra allowances. Particularly during longer spells of hot weather. Like specialist PPE to keep you cool and safe. Or installing fans and air conditioning in break areas.
Be especially careful if you're not used to working in hot environments. Your body needs time to adjust to working in the heat. If a sudden heatwave arrives, give yourself time to get used to working in hot weather. Be extra careful the first few days.
Don't want to miss future updates or special offers?
Rack Group now stock large quantities of the top racking manufacturers including:
AR Racking
Link 51
PSS
Cornix
Dexion
Pre-order full bays or individual components, available with installation or supply only.
Get in touch with our team today for more information.
Link 51
We have Link 51 racking IN STOCK ready to be shipped. There is currently a 13 week lead time direct from the manufacturer, but Rack Group can deliver the following components NEXT DAY.
Current stock includes:
Shelving - available assembled or in kit
2400 x 300
2400 x 500
2400 x 600
APR PALLET RACKING - available assembled or in kit
Uprights
900 E / S
1350 E / S
2250 E / H / M / S
4500 H
5250 H
6450 H
Beams
2700 x 105
2650 x 120
2670 x 120
2700 x 120
Cornix
Current stock includes:
Frames
6300 x 900 M
3900 x 900 M
8400 x 900 M
9600 x 900 M
Beams
2700 x 110
Baseplates
S/M/H
PSS
Current stock includes:
Beams
2700 x 110
2250 x 100
Uprights
4050 2KL85 3.0L
4650 2KL85 3.0L
5250 2KL85 3.0L
Bracing
787HC / 827OL PG
907HC / 947OL PG
1048HC / 1188OL
AR Racking
Current stock includes:
Frames
6000 x 900 XS20
8500 x 900 M
Beams
2700 x 110 2000kg
2700 x 150 3000kg
Speak to a member of the team today.
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PALLET SAFETY GATES
FEATURES: Safely load and unload pallets from mezzanine floors. Multiple options to suit requirements.
IDEAL FOR: Mezzanine floors, new installations or retro-fitting to existing structures.
FEATURES: Compact, high-density storage. Optimum use of space with semi-automated FIFO (First In, First Out) or LIFO (Last In, First Out) options.
IDEAL FOR: Warehouses with high turnover of stock, high volumes of pallets, seasonal merchandise, cold and freezer storage, perishable and non-perishable stock.
All racking is required to have a Safe Working Load Sign
Key things to know:
The safe working load limit of the rack needs to be displayed clearly for colleagues to see
The signs should be mechanically fitted in a conspicuous location 2m from the floor
They should be made from corrosion-resistant material
Every sign should include: the suppliers name, safe working loads, height to first beam, and beam pitch
REPAIR: Replace damaged Weight Load Signs or order replacement signs if your storage system has been altered since installation. Need help calculating your safe weight load? We can help.
PREVENT: Ensure all aisles of racking have Weight Load Signs to avoid beams becoming overloaded and unsafe.
Bracing and frames can be hit by moving pallets or MHE.
Key things to know:
Bracing can become torn or bent, compromising the load capacity of the racking
Damage can reduce the capacity of the frames to withstand accidental frontal impact
Deflections should be no more than 10mm in either direction before needing repair
Deflections under 10mm should still be monitored and reassessed at the next inspection
REPAIR: Replace or repair damaged bracing as soon as is required of the SEMA code of practice.
PREVENT: Although sometimes unavoidable, protecting racking frames with impact protection barriers can help reduce how close MHE can get to the racking. Training operators on careful and accurate placement of pallets can also help prevent damage.
Missing bolts and locking pins can result in dislodged components
Key things to know:
FEM recommends all racks are fixed to the floor with at least 1 bolt per base plate
Beam safety locks, or locking pins, provide resistance against accidental beam dislodgement
There should be 2 safety locks per beam
Dislodged beams result in unstable pallet loads and an increased risk of falling from height
Each racking type has a compatible locking pin, do not use nuts and bolts to secure beams to uprights
REPAIR: Order replacement bolts and safety locks. Replace any damaged beams that have become dislodged and require repair.
PREVENT: Regular inspections should include checking for any missing bolts / locks, as well as any dislodgement of beams. Hold stock of safety locks to replace any missing components.
Base plates are essential components for the safety of racking
Key things to know:
All racking should be fixed to the floor using 1 or more bolts per base plate
Unsecured racking is more vulnerable to collapse from impact
Damage to base plates can often cause damage to the floor
REPAIR: Damaged base plates should be repaired or replaced as soon as they pose a safety risk.
PREVENT: Ensure all base plates are secured to an unbroken floor with at least 1 bolt. Protect MHE from hitting uprights and base plates with racking protection guards.
Racking front and rear uprights are often impacted by MHE.
Key things to know:
Bends or twists can compromise the load capacity of the whole racking system
Deflections forwards or backwards should be no more than 3mm before needing repair
Deflections sideways should be no more than 5mm before needing repair
Repairing uprights by welding replacement sections compromises the safety of the system
REPAIR: It’s advised that damaged racking uprights are replaced rather than repaired to ensure safety compliance.
PREVENT: Most damage occurs within the first 600mm of the upright. Protect racking uprights from being damaged in the first place. Protection guards deflect and absorb impact before it can cause damage to the upright.
We like to challenge the status quo and set new benchmarks.
We never stand still; always updating, always adding value, always improving the performance of the products we manufacture and the solutions we deliver.
Sheffield, UK – 07 11 2023 – Rack Group, a leading provider of warehouse safety solutions, is thrilled to announce the expansion of its international distribution network through a new partnership with Lagerinnredning AS, a prominent Norwegian company specialising in warehouse optimisation and equipment.
