Hey there! As a supplier of Push Back Racking Systems, I've been getting a lot of questions lately about the lighting requirements for warehouses using these systems. So, I thought I'd write this blog to share some insights and help you figure out the best lighting setup for your warehouse.
Why Proper Lighting Matters in a Warehouse with Push Back Racking
First off, let's talk about why lighting is such a big deal in a warehouse with a Push Back Racking System. These racking systems are designed to maximize storage space by allowing pallets to be stored multiple deep. While this is great for storage density, it can also create some unique challenges when it comes to visibility.
In a warehouse with Push Back Racking, workers need to be able to see clearly to safely load and unload pallets. Poor lighting can lead to accidents, such as forklift collisions or pallets falling off the racks. It can also make it difficult for workers to read labels and identify products, which can slow down the picking process and increase the risk of errors.
In addition to safety and efficiency, proper lighting can also have a positive impact on the overall productivity of your warehouse. When workers can see clearly, they can work more quickly and accurately, which can lead to increased throughput and reduced labor costs.
Factors to Consider When Determining Lighting Requirements
Now that we understand why proper lighting is important, let's talk about the factors you need to consider when determining the lighting requirements for your warehouse with a Push Back Racking System.
Warehouse Size and Layout
The size and layout of your warehouse will play a big role in determining the amount and type of lighting you need. Larger warehouses will generally require more lighting than smaller ones, and warehouses with complex layouts may require additional lighting to ensure that all areas are well-lit.
When considering the layout of your warehouse, pay special attention to the aisles between the racks. These areas need to be well-lit to allow forklifts to move safely and for workers to access the pallets. You may also need to consider the height of the racks, as taller racks may require higher-intensity lighting to ensure that the top levels are visible.
Type of Goods Stored
The type of goods stored in your warehouse will also affect the lighting requirements. For example, if you store products that are sensitive to light, such as pharmaceuticals or food products, you may need to use special lighting fixtures that emit low levels of ultraviolet (UV) light.
On the other hand, if you store products that are difficult to see, such as small parts or products with low-contrast labels, you may need to use high-intensity lighting or additional lighting fixtures to improve visibility.
Activity Levels
The activity levels in your warehouse will also impact the lighting requirements. If your warehouse is a high-traffic area with a lot of forklift activity, you will need to ensure that the lighting is bright enough to allow workers to see clearly and avoid accidents.
If your warehouse is used primarily for storage and has lower activity levels, you may be able to get away with less lighting. However, it's still important to ensure that all areas of the warehouse are well-lit to prevent accidents and make it easier for workers to find and access products.
Energy Efficiency
In today's world, energy efficiency is an important consideration for any business. When choosing lighting fixtures for your warehouse, look for fixtures that are energy-efficient and have a long lifespan. LED lighting is a popular choice for warehouses because it uses less energy than traditional lighting fixtures and can last up to 25 times longer.
In addition to choosing energy-efficient lighting fixtures, you may also want to consider installing a lighting control system. A lighting control system allows you to adjust the lighting levels based on the time of day, the activity levels in the warehouse, and other factors. This can help you save energy and reduce your electricity costs.
Recommended Lighting Levels for a Warehouse with Push Back Racking
So, what are the recommended lighting levels for a warehouse with a Push Back Racking System? The answer to this question will depend on the factors we discussed above, such as the size and layout of your warehouse, the type of goods stored, and the activity levels.
However, as a general rule of thumb, the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) recommends a minimum of 30 foot-candles (fc) of illumination in the aisles between the racks and 50 fc in the picking areas. These levels are based on the assumption that the warehouse is used for general storage and picking operations.
If your warehouse has higher activity levels or if you store products that are difficult to see, you may need to increase the lighting levels accordingly. For example, if you store small parts or products with low-contrast labels, you may need to increase the lighting levels to 70 fc or more in the picking areas.
Types of Lighting Fixtures for a Warehouse with Push Back Racking
Now that we know the recommended lighting levels for a warehouse with a Push Back Racking System, let's talk about the types of lighting fixtures that are commonly used in warehouses.
High Bay Lighting
High bay lighting fixtures are designed to provide high-intensity lighting in large, open spaces, such as warehouses. These fixtures are typically mounted on the ceiling and can provide illumination at heights of up to 40 feet or more.
High bay lighting fixtures come in a variety of types, including fluorescent, metal halide, and LED. LED high bay lighting fixtures are becoming increasingly popular because they are energy-efficient, have a long lifespan, and provide high-quality illumination.
Low Bay Lighting
Low bay lighting fixtures are similar to high bay lighting fixtures, but they are designed to provide illumination at lower heights, typically between 8 and 20 feet. These fixtures are commonly used in areas of the warehouse where the ceiling height is lower, such as in mezzanine levels or in areas with low-clearance racks.
Like high bay lighting fixtures, low bay lighting fixtures come in a variety of types, including fluorescent, metal halide, and LED. LED low bay lighting fixtures are also a popular choice because they are energy-efficient and provide high-quality illumination.
Task Lighting
Task lighting is used to provide additional illumination in specific areas of the warehouse where workers need to perform detailed tasks, such as picking or packing. These fixtures are typically mounted on the racks or on the walls and can be adjusted to provide the desired level of illumination.
Task lighting fixtures come in a variety of types, including fluorescent, LED, and halogen. LED task lighting fixtures are a popular choice because they are energy-efficient, have a long lifespan, and provide high-quality illumination.
Conclusion
In conclusion, proper lighting is essential for a warehouse with a Push Back Racking System. By considering the factors we discussed above, such as the size and layout of your warehouse, the type of goods stored, and the activity levels, you can determine the lighting requirements for your warehouse and choose the right lighting fixtures to meet those requirements.
Remember, LED lighting is a great choice for warehouses because it is energy-efficient, has a long lifespan, and provides high-quality illumination. And if you're looking for a reliable supplier of Push Back Racking Systems and lighting fixtures, look no further! We offer a wide range of Three Pallet Deep Push Back Pallet Racks, Four Pallet Deep Push Back Racks Pallets, and Two Pallet Deep Push Back Racking to meet your specific needs.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss your lighting requirements further, please don't hesitate to contact us. We'd be happy to help you find the right solution for your warehouse.
References
- Illuminating Engineering Society (IES). (2019). Lighting Handbook: Reference and Application (10th ed.).
- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). (2018). NFPA 101: Life Safety Code.
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). (2012). General Industry Safety and Health Standards.
