All areas of a warehouse require regular inspection to ensure compliance with various health and safety laws.
If your building has a mezzanine floor, including to house the likes of machinery, storage or office space, then it too will require daily checks. The main areas to inspect include the structure, surfaces and safety features to ensure all systems are functional and ultimately safe to use.
While not intended as a substitute for independent health and safety advice, here are our top tips from the The Mezzanine Company team on what to review within a warehouse mezzanine before each shift.
Structural Integrity
Warehouse mezzanines are often house heavy machinery and may also be subject to other industrial processes. So, it’s essential that the structure remains sound and secure.
Ensure that there is no visible damage, bends, or cracks in columns, beams or joists. The decking panels should be securely fixed and free from deflection or warping. The structure should also not show any signs of rust, corrosion or loose bolts. Any guardrails and handrails must be firmly attached and undamaged.
Report any structural issues immediately and restrict access until inspected by a qualified engineer.
Flooring & Deck Surface
The surface where personnel will be walking or vehicles will be travelling over should be safe and unobstructed. As a result, there should be no loose, uneven or damaged flooring panels.
To help prevent trips and slips, the mezzanine floor surface should also be clear of debris, oil or water spills. Check that any anti-slip surfaces are in good condition.
Edge Protection & Handrails
All edges must be safely protected to prevent falls. Check that any guardrails, toe boards and mid-rails are present and secure. There should be no missing components or loose fittings.
Access gates and safety barriers must function properly and there should be no temporary openings left unguarded.
Pallet Gates & Loading Areas
Safe loading and unloading zones are essential for mezzanine safety. During the daily checks of a mezzanine warehouse, ensure that pallet gates operate smoothly and lock securely.
Safety chains or gates should always be in use when loading or unloading. There should be no overhanging loads or materials blocking the edge. Check that the floor markings around loading zones are visible and clear.
Stairs, Ladders & Access Points
All routes which lead to and from a warehouse mezzanine must remain clear and safe. Aspects to inspect include the stair treads, handrails and landings to ensure they are free from damage or obstruction.
Staircase and access areas should be adequately lit. Steps should have anti-slip nosing and the handrails must be secure. Any access area points should also not have any stored materials blocking the means of escape.
Fire Safety
Warehouses, including mezzanine floors, must comply with UK fire safety regulations. This requires measures such as having fire exits that are clearly marked and accessible.
Also, there should be emergency lighting and safety signage. Fire extinguishers need to be in place and inspected to ensure they are operational.
No combustible materials should be stored near electrical systems or exits.
Electrical & Lighting Systems
All lighting must be fully operational. Any electrical equipment and cabling should be intact with no exposed wires.
Any plug-in tools or devices should be PAT tested and in good condition.
Load Limits & Storage
Stay within approved design limits for the mezzanine structure. The load signage should be visible and understood by staff.
Ensure no overloading of racking or floor areas and that there is even distribution of weight across the deck. Any heavy items should be stored close to support columns.
General Housekeeping
During a regular inspection of a warehouse mezzanine, it is also essential to look out for potential hazards. These may differ for every mezzanine, depending on the machinery or materials present.
However, the idea is always to keep the mezzanine floor tidy and hazard-free. Inspect the emergency exits and ensure all walkways are kept clear. There should be no trailing cables or trip hazards. Any waste materials should be removed promptly. Also, any tools and equipment should be stored safely.
Is Your Mezzanine Floor Due For A Refurbishment Or Even A Change Of Use? – Contact Our Experts Today
If your current mezzanine was installed many years ago, then it may be in need of attention, particularly if the maintenance requirements are stacking up.
Additionally, all mezzanines should have regular servicing to highlight any faults within the structure or interior finishes.
So, if it’s time to upgrade your warehouse mezzanine so that it’s compliant, or if you are interested in transforming the usage potential of your mezzanine floor, then you’re in the right place!
The Mezzanine Company is based in Nottingham and we install mezzanine floors for a variety of industrial sectors.
To find out more, get in touch with our team here at The Mezzanine Company or give us a call on 0115 647 7140.
