If you have pallet racking, you are required to notify all employees with a sign stating the maximum total weight.

Do warehouses need to post a sign on pallet racking displaying the total weight allowed to be stored per level?

Yes, warehouses are generally required to post signage on pallet racking that displays the total weight allowed to be stored per level. This is a common safety requirement to ensure that the racks are not overloaded, which could lead to structural failure, accidents, or damage to stored goods.

In many jurisdictions, occupational safety regulations such as those enforced by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the U.S. require clear labeling of load capacities on pallet racking systems. These signs must be visible and indicate the maximum allowable load per shelf or level, as well as the total load capacity for the entire rack.

It’s important for warehouse operators to comply with these regulations to ensure worker safety and to prevent costly accidents. Regular inspections and signage updates may also be needed if changes are made to the racking or storage methods.

If I already know what the capacity is of my racking, can I buy a PDF'd sign online to hang on my racking to meet OSHA requirements?

Yes, you can purchase pre-made or customizable PDF signs online to meet OSHA requirements for pallet racking capacity signage. Many companies offer signs that allow you to input your specific racking capacity, and these can be downloaded as a PDF for printing. You can then laminate the printed sign and attach it to your racking.

However, it's important to ensure that the sign meets the specific requirements for your jurisdiction, such as including information on the maximum load per level and overall rack capacity. Some suppliers also offer durable, OSHA-compliant signs specifically designed for industrial environments, which may last longer and are more resistant to wear and tear than standard printed signs.

Make sure that the signs are clearly visible, located at or near the racking, and that they accurately reflect the weight limits. Regular inspections should be conducted to ensure the signs are intact and legible.

If I need a specific sign that is not offered here for download, can Lean Inc. produce a sign bespoke for my needs?

Lean Inc. offers custom signage services and can produce a bespoke signs tailored to your needs. Lean Material Handling store is in the industrial and safety sector and provides custom options for racking and warehouse signs to meet specific requirements, such as unique weight limits, configurations, or design preferences.  Contact us using the contact us page, online chat, or email us at info@leanmh.com