What is racking labelling in a warehouse?

Racking labelling involves placing clear, durable labels or signs on warehouse racks to identify aisles, bays, shelves, load capacities, and product locations for efficient storage management.

Why is racking labelling important?

Proper labelling improves warehouse organisation, speeds up order picking, reduces errors, enhances safety by communicating weight limits, and helps with regulatory compliance.

Are racking labels required by UK law?

While no specific law mandates labelling, UK regulations under PUWER and HSE guidance recommend clear and visible load notices and labelling to ensure safe use and compliance with health and safety laws.

What information should be displayed on racking labels?

Labels should include maximum load capacities per bay and level, aisle and bay identification, manufacturer details, installation or last inspection date, and any hazard warnings.

How often should racking labels be updated?

Racking labels should be reviewed and updated whenever rack configurations, load capacities, or warehouse layouts change to maintain accuracy and safety.

What materials are used for racking labels?

Durable materials like heavy-duty PVC, laminated paper, metal plates, or weather-resistant adhesive labels are used to withstand warehouse conditions such as dust, moisture, and temperature changes.

Can racking labels include barcodes or QR codes?

Yes, incorporating barcodes or QR codes facilitates automated inventory tracking and improves efficiency in locating and managing stock.

How should racking labels be installed?

Labels can be fixed using self-adhesive backing, magnetic strips, clips, or brackets, placed prominently for easy visibility without obstructing operations.

Do racking labels improve warehouse safety?

Yes, they communicate load limits and hazard information clearly, preventing overloading and improper use that could cause rack failure and accidents.

Are there UK or European standards guiding racking labelling?

EN 15635 provides guidance on safe storage equipment use, including labelling; HSE recommends clear load signage under PUWER; CLP regulations apply for hazardous material labelling.

Can racking labels identify hazardous materials or areas?

Yes, labels can include hazard symbols or safety warnings to alert workers of special precautions needed in specific storage zones.

Is it possible to customise racking labels for different warehouse needs?

Absolutely. Labels can be customised for size, colour, content, and mounting method to suit specific warehouse layouts and operational requirements.

What are common types of racking labels used in warehouses?

Common types include aisle and bay markers, load capacity plates, shelf labels, barcode labels, location indicators, and hazard warning signs.

How do racking labels support compliance with health and safety inspections?

Proper labelling helps demonstrate due diligence in maintenance, load management, and worker safety, aiding in passing audits and legal inspections.

What should I do if racking labels become damaged or illegible?

Replace or repair labels promptly to ensure information remains clear and compliant, preventing safety risks or operational errors.

How visible should racking labels be?

Labels must be highly visible and legible from a safe distance to enable quick identification by warehouse staff during normal operations.

Do racking labels require regular maintenance?

Yes, labels should be inspected regularly as part of warehouse safety and maintenance routines to ensure they remain readable and securely attached.

Can racking labels be used in cold or humid storage environments?

Labels made from suitable materials such as laminated or plastic versions are designed to withstand cold, moisture, and harsh warehouse conditions.

Where can I buy compliant racking labels?

Action Handling provide industry-compliant racking labels tailored to UK warehouse standards and requirements.

How do I order racking labels from Action Handling?

You can contact Action Handling through their website or phone to discuss your labelling needs, customise orders, and schedule delivery.