Brace
for
Impact

Client:	Auckland Meat Processors
Location:	Auckland

Auckland Meat Processors handle a high volume of pallets that require frozen storage in a confined space. Drive in racking is the perfect solution, but it’s not without its challenges.

Scope

Handling high density long shelf life goods calls for a first in last out storage model. Auckland Meat Processors needed a solution that provided a safe working environment for their staff, protection for their product and it’s packaging and a racking solution that was going to stand the test of time in its harsh environment.

Challenge

Due to the confined spaces and narrow aisles, drive in racking has a higher chance of impact than most. Add to this the fact that the racking is in a freezer and things get even more complex.

With health and safety being a top priority for Auckland Meat Processors the replacement of their existing drive in racking was a priority.

Solution

Selecting the right product for the job was key for Auckland Meat Processors. PRS designed, supplied and installed a new heavy-duty drive in racking solution to replace their existing racking.

Drive in racking allows maximum use of space – almost as dense as block stacking, with the added advantage of product and packing protection due to separation. It allows for deep storage for efficient use of available space, perfect for confined operating areas like freezers. With drive-in racking, pallets are placed by the forklift on horizontal rails, thus storing them more deeply than traditional selective racking and creating more space in the warehouse. Forklifts “drive in” to load or retrieve the pallets within the racking.

The new drive in racking solution has provided a safer working environment and the selected heavy duty racking is now fit for purpose, designed to take the knocks in a hard working environment. PRS used heavy duty post sections (100mmx95mmx3mm), rails, bracing and protectors to fully replace their damaged and obsolete drive in racking which utilised 90mmx70mmx2mm post sections. With the addition of post protectors the solution provided is future proofed.

Installation of pallet racking in a freezer or chiller is always a challenge. With an experienced crew, regular breaks and the correct thermal protective wear the job was completed on time and of minimum disruption to the operation of the business.