Pallet gates for mezzanines

As with most risk assessments, the priority is identifying hazards including falls, injuries, improper operation, inadequate maintenance and structural failure.

Once all risks have been identified an assessment will evaluate and prioritise the likelihood and potential severity of the risks. Control measures will then be put into place to prevent accidents and reviewed and monitored regularly to maintain a safe work environment.  

Absolutely, a mezzanine pallet gate is designed to be used for safe loading and moving stock between levels following safe-use procedures. 

• Gate Operation: Opening the gate fully to provide unobstructed access and locking it securely in position to avoid accidental movement when loading and unloading.  
• Load Capacity: Being aware of the maximum load capacity for your mezzanine pallet gate and making sure this is never exceeded. 
• Safe loading protocol: Proper stacking and securing of loaded stock using appropriate equipment and correct lifting techniques. 
• Training: All staff using the mezzanine pallet gate must be adequately trained in the correct operation adhering to all manufacturer’s instructions and established safety rules.  

There are a variety of alternatives to mezzanine pallet lifts but when considering alternative options certain factors come into play such as load capacity, operational efficiency, space constraints, safety requirements and cost. You may want to also consider versatility as other options can be relocated with ease. Below are a few of the alternatives out there. 

• Forklifts: One of the most utilised bits of warehouse equipment. Forklifts can easily move stock between levels and can be driven to other locations within your warehouse, making them versatile machines. 
• Mezzanine Pallet Gate: Often used alongside forklifts as the gate allows stock to be placed upon it with a barrier protecting the staff on the mezzanine. Once the forklift clears the area, the barrier is raised whilst simultaneously lowering another on the edge side of the gate.  
• Conveyor Systems: A conveyor system takes up a lot of space and is secured in position. If a high volume of stock is being regularly moved between levels, then this may be the choice for you. If not, then you might find it unnecessarily taking up a lot of warehouse space.  
• Scissor Lifts: Operating similarly to a forklift, a scissor lift can move goods between levels with stability and security but have a much smaller load capacity than forklifts and mezzanine pallet lifts. You would also have to employ a system to load onto the scissor lift and sliding barriers on the mezzanine for safety. 
• Pallet Jacks: Pallet jacks are often found in warehouses and are a great piece of machinery for easy and efficient movement of goods. However, to use them between levels would involve having ramps in place and this could cause unnecessary duress on your staff.  

When it comes to safety in the workplace there is no room for cost-cutting. Purchasing a second-hand gate may seem the economic option but if it does not function correctly and the worst should happen it could be disastrous. However, the cost of a mezzanine pallet gate is not something to be concerned about. Prices vary depending on material and size but unless you are after bespoke dimensions then you should be looking at between £500 and £1200. If your requirements are bespoke, then factors such as design complexity and features can contribute to the price. Discussing your personal requirements with Advantage will help us to give you the best product at the best price.  

Mezzanine gate requirements vary depending on safety guidelines, regulations and standards specific to your location and industry. However, there are a few common requirements that should be considered when choosing the right gate for you.  

• Dimensions: Mezzanine gates should be designed to adequately cover the access points preventing any risk of falls and be tall enough to be unable to climb. The dimensions should also comply with your local building regulations.  
• Structural Integrity: Mezzanine gates must be built to ensure they are capable of carrying the loads they are intended for. They must also be built using strong and durable materials.  
• Safety Features: There should also be appropriate safety features in place for the operation of a mezzanine gate including locking mechanisms that prevent unintentional locking and opening, handrails, kick plates and mesh panels to prevent falls.  
• Maintenance and Compliance: Mezzanine gates should comply with local safety regulations and building standards and be regularly maintained and inspected to ensure safe operation and immediate repair when necessary.  

It is advisory to consult with safety professionals, local authorities and the experts at Advantage to make sure your intended mezzanine gate complies with all regulations, offers the safety required and can perform its intended task.