Regulatory Framework for Industrial Metal Racking

UNI EN 15629:2009 and UNI EN 15635:2009 Standards for Warehouse Safety

Reference Standards

The safety of metal racking in warehouses is governed by two European standards adopted in Italy:

UNI EN 15629:2009

Static steel storage systems - Specifications for storage equipment

Defines technical and design requirements for metal racking systems
UNI EN 15635:2009

Static steel storage systems - Use and maintenance of storage equipment

Establishes procedures for use, inspection and maintenance

User Obligations and Responsibilities

1

Regular Inspections and Repairs

The user has the responsibility to subject the racking system, during its life cycle, to regular inspections to ensure that any damage is repaired or any damaged component is replaced with identical new parts from the same manufacturer.

Regulatory reference: App. A, lett. l) UNI EN 15629:2009
2

Periodic Structural Checks

The user should consider that regular structural checks of the racking must be conducted during its life cycle, including explanations about damage levels:

GREEN No action required
AMBER Monitoring needed
RED Immediate action
Regulatory reference: par. 9.2, lett. p) UNI EN 15635:2009
3

Personnel Training

The user should provide trained personnel for the use of materials handling equipment and capable of operating with racking systems ensuring the safety of operations.

Regulatory reference: UNI EN 15629:2009
4

Installation and Assembly

The user should ensure the correct execution of detailed instructions for installation and assembly provided by the storage equipment supplier, whether performing the installation themselves or engaging a contractor.

It is preferable that installation is performed by the supplier or manufacturer.
Regulatory reference: UNI EN 15629:2009
5

Configuration Modifications

The user should recognize that there are safety implications in case of alteration of the original racking configuration.

Any modification to the original configuration must be evaluated by qualified personnel.
Regulatory reference: UNI EN 15635:2009

Operational Standards for Use

The user is required to ensure the following operational conditions:

6. Load Handling

Ensure that pallets or any other load unit are lifted vertically to place them on, or extract them from, load beams, pallet support beams, shelves, and are not dragged or pulled.

7. Load Stability

Ensure the stability of loads and stacked materials, verifying that they are correctly positioned and balanced.

8. Space Management

Prevent stored material from protruding into aisles, ensuring free circulation and personnel safety.

9. Protection Elements

Highlight the need or request the supply of protection elements for racking where necessary.

Protection Systems

To reduce risks and safeguard workers' health, the following protections must be adopted:

Column Guards

Protection at the base of upright frames to prevent impact damage

End Frame Protection

Protection elements for upright frames at the end of rows

Fall Prevention Nets

Fall prevention netting on single-sided rows with personnel passage

Need an Inspection?

Our certified technicians are available to perform inspections compliant with UNI EN 15629:2009 and UNI EN 15635:2009 standards.