Why Are Standards Important?
Racking standards ensure that shelving units can withstand loads, resist impacts, and maintain stability over time. Compliance with international regulations reduces workplace hazards and ensures operational efficiency.
Warehouse Racking Safety in Singapore (MOM Guideline)
In Singapore, ensuring the safety of warehouse racking systems is governed by guidelines from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and other relevant authorities. Key aspects include:
Design Considerations:
- Environmental Factors: Design racks to withstand conditions such as vehicular movement (e.g., forklifts) and temperature variations, especially in environments like cold rooms. Ministry of Manpower Singapore – Safe Use of Storage Racks
- Structural Stability: Racks must be designed to be stable and suitable for their intended use, considering factors like weight, volume, and the environment. Ministry of Manpower Singapore – Safe Use of Storage Racks
- Load Capacity: Clearly display the safe working load on racks. For stacked racks, ensure lower racks can support the weight of upper racks and their contents. Ministry of Manpower Singapore – Safe Use of Storage Racks
Usage Guidelines:
- Manufacturer’s Instructions: Use storage racks according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Risk Assessment: Conduct risk assessments to identify potential hazards associated with rack usage. Ministry of Manpower Singapore – Safe Use of Storage Racks
- Safe Work Procedures: Develop procedures to ensure that the combined weight of stored goods does not exceed rack capacity. Train warehouse personnel on these procedures. Ministry of Manpower Singapore – Safe Use of Storage Racks
Maintenance Requirements:
- Regular Inspections: Inspect racks and accessories (including pallets) regularly to ensure structural integrity. Repair or replace any defective parts before use. Ministry of Manpower Singapore
- Professional Assessments: Engage certified rack safety inspectors for annual inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards. Warehouse Racking Inspection Consultancy – WRIC
Fire Safety Measures:
- Sprinkler Systems: Install automatic sprinkler systems if the warehouse compartment size exceeds specified limits. SCDF – Fire Safety
- Storage Height Control: Provide signage indicating maximum allowable storage heights to maintain minimum clearance below sprinkler heads. SCDF – Fire Safety
Regulatory Compliance:
- Workplace Safety and Health Act: Adhere to the Workplace Safety and Health Act, which emphasizes proactive management of safety and health in workplaces. Workplace_Safety_and_Health_Act
- Agency Clearances: Obtain necessary clearances from relevant agencies, such as the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) for structural safety and the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) for fire safety, when installing racking systems. Urban Redevelopment Authority
By following these guidelines and regulations, warehouses in Singapore can maintain safe and efficient storage environments, minimizing risks to personnel and inventory.
