Pallets are the wheels that drive global commerce. They’re ubiquitous in warehouses, transportation modes, and big-box retail outlets.
Yet despite best practices and determined workplace safety policies, pallets continue to pose slip-and-fall risks to employees. That’s why it’s crucial for supervisors to require workers to keep stacks of pallets low and flat.
Durability
Unlike wood pallets, metal pallets do not crack or splinter under pressure. This makes them ideal for items that require cleanliness and strength, such as heavy machinery or electronics. They are also pest-resistant, eliminating the need for chemical treatments that can raise environmental concerns. Additionally, they can withstand a wide range of temperatures, making them suitable for use in extreme environments.
Despite the durability of metal pallets, it’s important to follow proper handling practices when dealing with them. This includes regularly inspecting them for signs of wear and addressing issues promptly. For example, if hinges or latches become stiff or inoperable due to constant strain, they can be lubricated to restore smooth operation. This will help keep operations running smoothly while minimizing any safety risks.
It’s also important to maintain equipment that will be used to handle the pallets, including forklifts and racking systems. Regularly checking and cleaning these pieces of equipment will help to prevent any accidents that could cause damage to the items being shipped. Additionally, implementing policies that encourage employees to always wear PPE when working with pallets will help to reduce workplace injuries. This may include gloves to protect hands from cuts and scrapes, steel-toe boots to protect feet from falling items, or back supports to prevent strain injuries while lifting boxes.
Another benefit of metal pallets is their natural durability and longer lifespan. This means that they will not need to be replaced as often as wooden or plastic alternatives. This can save businesses significant money in the long run. Additionally, many steel pallets are recyclable, further cutting costs by reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.
As a result of their durability, metal pallets are a popular choice for businesses that ship and store high-value items. However, they are not suitable for all industries, and it’s important to choose the right pallet type for your business needs. In addition to identifying your preferred materials and dimensions, you should consider other factors, such as your load’s size and freight transport options. With careful planning, you can find a pallet that will meet your unique requirements while keeping your operations running smoothly.
Stability
The sturdy construction of metal pallets ensures that heavy loads stay in place during transportation and storage. This reduces the chances of accidental product damage and saves on warehousing expenses like inventory replacement and insurance premiums. The pallets also have less environmental impact than their wooden and plastic counterparts since they are reusable.
However, there are still some risks associated with using them, especially when employees handle them carelessly. Heavy loads landing on workers are one of the leading causes of warehouse injuries. Employees should follow safety tips when working with these containers to avoid this. They should also regularly inspect the condition of metal pallets to detect any deterioration or wear.
Incorrect packaging and stacking formations can lead to compromised pallet stability, resulting in product damage and lost profits. These incidents can be extremely costly because they involve extra labor, waste products, and transport costs.
Steel pallets are more stable than wooden ones, and their flat surface prevents them from splinters, dust, and protrusions. They are also moisture-free, reducing the risk of corrosion and rust. They can be easily cleaned and inspected, saving time and money for warehousing staff.
Unlike wood and plastic, metal can function in a wide range of temperatures, making them ideal for environments that require high performance. Unlike wood and plastic, they can also withstand flammable materials and are resistant to chemical contaminants. Moreover, they can be easily sanitized, making them popular for use in clean room applications.
Metal pallets are also lighter than wooden and plastic, which makes them easier to handle by a forklift. This reduces shipping and handling costs and improves worker productivity. They also offer greater flexibility when it comes to sizing, as they can be adjusted to the dimensions of the load.
In addition, metal pallets have the best durability and strength of all types of containers. They are ideal for a variety of industries, including manufacturing, automotive, lawn tractors, motorcycles, and pharmaceuticals. They are also suitable for freight shipping, as they can withstand high amounts of pressure from the cargo. Additionally, they can be easily stacked and secured with straps or nets.
Convenience
Unlike wood pallets, metal pallets can be cleaned and sterilized to keep them in good condition. This feature is crucial in warehouses and other industrial environments where sanitation is critical. These pallets also have a longer lifespan than most other pallets, so they are a cost-effective solution for businesses requiring durability and longevity.
When choosing a steel pallet, look for one that is made of high-quality steel. This will ensure a strong load-carrying capacity and durability for years to come. Moreover, the right material will prevent damage to your cargo during transit. For example, a steel pallet made of a low-quality material may lose its load-carrying capacity if it is exposed to corrosive chemicals or harsh environments.
Inspecting your metal pallets regularly is an essential part of maintaining them. Look for signs of deterioration, such as missing or loose components. Address these issues promptly to prevent them from causing more serious damage. You should also use lubricants to keep movable parts in good working order. Be sure to choose a lubricant that is compatible with your pallet’s materials.
The best way to avoid accidents while handling metal pallets is to wear proper protective equipment. This includes work gloves and steel-toe boots. Using these tools will protect your hands and feet from injury, which is a common cause of workplace accidents in factory settings. You can also avoid accidents by ensuring that your staff follow the correct procedures when transporting pallets.
Lastly, make sure to properly store metal pallets to increase their lifespan. They should be stored in a clean, dry area where they are protected from corrosion and other environmental conditions. Also, make sure to avoid stacking them with other pallets that have been exposed to corrosive chemicals.
Depending on the needs of your business, you can customize your metal pallets by adding a variety of options, including labels and IDs. Whether you’re looking for a specific type of pallet or want to save on shipping costs, Eurorack has a wide range of options that will suit your needs. After communicating with customer service, you can have a custom metal pallet designed to help you reduce the cost of transportation and storage and keep your inventory moving smoothly.
Cost
Pallets might seem insignificant compared to other parts of a warehouse, but they play an important role in a company’s operations. As such, pallet safety standards must be enforced to minimize accidents and injuries. Warehouse workers often work with pallets on a daily basis, putting their hands and feet at risk of injury. Wearing work gloves and steel-toe boots will help keep hands and feet safe from abrasions, cuts, and other injuries. Forklifts must be used carefully when handling pallets to avoid damaging or injuring themselves.
A 2020 academic study found that upwards of 30,000 people required hospitalization or emergency room treatment after suffering pallet-related injuries. Even though warehousing operations invest in worker training and equipment designed to prevent accidents, pallets pose a significant risk to workers. The main reason for this is that a single pallet can weigh up to 4,600 pounds. Two pallets stacked together can even exceed that weight. This can cause the load to become unstable during transport, leading to a catastrophic accident.
When compared to plastic and wood, metal pallets offer the best durability. They can withstand the widest range of temperatures, making them ideal for environments that require temperature control. They also provide a solid base for products that may be volatile, such as fuels and chemicals. They are easy to clean and non-contaminating, which makes them ideal for some cleanroom applications.
In addition to reducing transportation, storage, and inventory management costs, metal pallets can help companies save on maintenance and repair costs. They are more resistant to rust than wooden and plastic pallets, which reduces the need for costly refinishing or reconditioning. They are also less prone to insect infestations than other pallets.
While these benefits are considerable, it’s important to remember that even the most durable pallet can still cause injuries. Warehouse workers must always be attentive when working with pallets and follow proper lifting techniques to avoid back injury. In addition, it’s a good idea to inspect pallets regularly for signs of damage, such as loose or broken components. Inspecting and repairing these issues promptly will reduce the risk of accidents and other potential risks to personnel.