U-Shape and L-Shape Frame Guards for Pallet Racking

Protecting racking frames from impact is a crucial part of warehouse safety. Forklifts, trolleys, and other moving equipment can easily strike upright frames, causing structural damage that compromises the entire racking system. U-Shape and L-Shape frame guards are designed to absorb impacts and protect your racks, helping keep your warehouse safe and compliant.

What Are Frame Guards?

U-Shape Frame Guard

Frame guards are protective steel barriers bolted or anchored to the floor around the base of pallet racking uprights. Their purpose is to:

• Prevent damage to uprights from vehicle or equipment collisions

• Reduce the risk of racking failure due to impacts

• Protect both stock and personnel in busy warehouses

U-Shape Guards wrap around the front and sides of an upright, forming a “U” that shields two sides. They are typically used on open-end uprights where forklifts can approach the frame directly from the aisle end.

L-Shape Guards protect a single corner or side of an upright, forming an “L”. They are ideal for corner uprights where forklifts cannot access the frame from the end but may still hit it from one side.

The type of guard used depends on aisle layout, traffic patterns, and exposure risk.

Australian Standard Requirements

According to AS 4084:2023 – Steel Storage Racking:

• Frame guards should be steel, strong enough to resist impact, and securely anchored to the floor

• It is a minimum requirement to have a guard installed on every end frame

• Guards should cover the base of the upright up to 400 mm high to provide adequate protection

• While not required by the standard, it is recommended to also have guards installed on the front of each upright to reduce collision risk from forklifts and trolleys

• Guards must not interfere with the intended use of the racking or block access for inspections and maintenance

• Guards should be visible and clearly marked, helping operators avoid collisions

Failure to install adequate frame guards is considered a safety risk and non-compliance under AS 4084

Common Installation Guidelines

• Height: Frame guards must cover the upright’s base up to 400 mm above floor level

• Anchor: Securely bolted into the floor with appropriate chemical or mechanical anchors, rated for impact loads

• Spacing: Install at all upright locations along aisles or areas with vehicle traffic

• Type Selection:

  • U-Shape: For open-end uprights where forklifts can access the frame directly

  • L-Shape: For corner uprights where forklifts cannot access from the end but may strike the side

• Recommended: Consider guards on the front of all uprights for extra protection, even if not required by the standard

Why Frame Guards Matter

• Upright frames are critical to the racking system’s integrity. Damage from collisions can reduce load capacity, cause instability, and increase the risk of collapse

• Frame guards absorb impacts and help prevent costly repairs or replacement of racking

• They also protect staff and stock from accidents caused by fallen pallets or collapsing racks

Inspection & Maintenance

• Check guards regularly for cracks, bends, or loose anchors

• Replace damaged guards immediately; do not attempt to repair or weld in place

• Ensure that guards remain aligned with the uprights and are not interfering with pallets or forklifts

Final Word

U-Shape and L-Shape frame guards are a simple but highly effective way to protect your pallet racking. Properly installed to 400 mm height and maintained, they reduce damage from collisions, maintain compliance with AS 4084, and keep your warehouse safe for staff and stock. Choosing the correct guard type for the upright’s position — U-Shape for open ends, L-Shape for corners — ensures maximum protection where it’s needed most. While the standard only requires guards on end frames, adding them to the front of each upright is highly recommended for extra safety.