Cable & coil racking FAQs

Here are the answers to some of the most common questions we’re asked about cable and coil racking, its installation and maintenance.

[Q] What are the main benefits of using coil and reel racking?

[A] Storing your products in this type of racking allows for easy access. So stock can be picked and replenished efficiently and the time and cost of stocktaking is significantly reduced.

[Q] Do I need to have my existing racking inspected?

[A] Yes. You need to have an inspection carried out by a SEMA accredited inspector. The Health & Safety Executive recommend that an inspection is carried out by a ‘technically competent person’ at least once every 12 months. You should also carry out your own regular inspections to identify any racking that requires maintenance or replacement.

[Q] Are there any regulations that my racking needs to comply with?

[A] There are no regulations that specifically relate to racking. However, the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER), the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (HASAWA), and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 all have a statutory ‘duty of care’ that your business must operate safely which includes making sure any racking is fully maintained.

[Q] What are the key pieces of information I need to know when ordering racking?

[A] The most important aspect of using racking safely is understanding the load capacity. You need to know the materials the racking uses and how it is constructed to calculate how much weight each racking shelf can safely support.

You should also think about the amount of storage space you have available. Avoid trying to squeeze more racking into a space than it can safely accommodate. Height restrictions are also a factor that needs to be checked in the racking manufacturer’s installation guidelines. Never exceed the heights stipulated as this could result in the racking collapsing. Finally don’t forget to think about the machinery, forklifts for example, as well as the people using the space who should be able to move freely around the racking at all times.

[Q] Do you offer a racking planning service?

[A] Yes. Acerax offer a comprehensive range of fully integrated services that are designed to provide our customers with a ‘one stop shop’ for all their warehousing requirements. Unlike other suppliers we are totally committed to support our customers from their initial contact with us by providing planning and installation services as well as aftersales assistance for maintenance, repairs and racking inspections by our SEMA approved inspectors.

[Q] Do you supply any pre-used racking and components?

[A] Yes. Acerax buy racking and components from a range of sources and refurbish them for resale. This can save our customers a significant amount of money. However, you can rest assured that this doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality. Our pre-used racking is of the highest quality and meets all the relevant regulations.

[Q] Can Acerax move our racking to a new location?

[A] Yes. We offer a comprehensive racking removal and relocation service. If you are moving to a new location we can safely disassemble your racking and install it in your new site with minimal disruption to your business. Just leaving everything to us.

[Q] Do you supply any additional items?

[A] Yes. In addition to racking and shelving Acerax can also supply a wide range of other products, such as locked cabinets and smoking shelters as well as a comprehensive selection of racking components for when you need replacements or want to expand your racking.

To find out more click here to visit our online shop.