Let’s Get Into It: Pallet Racking Safety Across Canada

When it comes to pallet racking, safety isn’t just a good idea—it’s the law. Regulations vary
across provinces and territories, but one thing remains constant: compliance is essential. Not
only does it help you avoid costly fines and downtime, but it also ensures your employees are
protected and your operations run smoothly.
Each province and territory brings its own twist to pallet racking safety guidelines. Let’s dive into
the specifics and explore how you can keep your racks—and your business—on the right side
of the law.

 

Ontario: The Hub of Industry

In Ontario, pallet racking safety is under the watchful eye of the Ministry of Labor,
Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD).

Here’s what you need to know:
● Structural Integrity: Your racking must meet CSA A344 standards for steel storage
racks, ensuring they can handle the loads they’re designed for.
● Annual Inspections: Certified professionals are required to inspect your racking
systems every year.
● Penalties for Non-Compliance: Ontario takes safety seriously, and the fines for failing
to comply can be steep—up to $1.5 million for corporations in severe cases!

Pro Tip: Many Ontario businesses overlook employee training on proper loading techniques.
This small investment can significantly reduce accidents and wear on racks.

British Columbia: Earthquake Essentials

BC is a beautiful province with a unique challenge: earthquakes. Safety regulations here reflect
that.
● Seismic Standards: All pallet racking must meet National Building Code of Canada
(NBCC) seismic resistance standards.
● Inspection Frequency: WorkSafe BC requires frequent inspections, and you’ll need to
keep those records for at least two years.
● Load Signs: Capacity signs aren’t just nice to have—they’re mandatory and must be
easily visible.

Did You Know? Ignoring seismic guidelines can lead to not just fines but massive liability in the
event of a collapse. If your racking predates the latest codes, it’s time to upgrade.

Alberta: Built for Heavy Duty

With its robust industrial base, Alberta’s safety standards align with Alberta Occupational
Health and Safety (OHS) regulations:
● Engineer Certification: Your racking systems need a professional engineer’s stamp of
approval before use.
● Safety Inspections: Regular, recorded inspections are non-negotiable.
● Training: Employees must be trained to safely load, unload, and report damage to
racks.

Hot Tip: Alberta’s OHS also places a strong emphasis on accident reporting. Documenting even
minor incidents can save headaches down the line.

Saskatchewan: Keeping the Prairies Safe

Saskatchewan might seem relaxed, but its racking regulations mean business.
● Seismic Requirements: While not as stringent as BC, certain regions still require
seismic considerations.
● Repair Standards: Damaged racking? It must be repaired or replaced according to CSA
standards.
● Clear Aisles: Emergency access is critical, so keep those aisles unobstructed!

Why It Matters: Saskatchewan’s weather can be harsh, and warped racks from fluctuating
temperatures are more common than you’d think. Inspect often.

 

Manitoba: Rules to Elevate Your Safety

Manitoba follows the Workplace Safety and Health Act to ensure workplaces stay efficient and
secure:
● Inspections: Routine maintenance isn’t optional—it’s a legal requirement.
● Load Labels: Every racking system must display its load capacity, certified by
engineering specifications.
● Height Restrictions: Some towering racking systems require municipal approval, so
check before you build.

Quick Win: Train your team to load higher racks with forklifts correctly—it’s a common
compliance failure in Manitoba.

Quebec: Unique Challenges

In Quebec, safety rules follow the lead of CNESST:

● Seismic Design: High-risk areas demand seismic-rated systems, similar to BC.

● French Labels: All signage, including capacity labels, must comply with language laws.
 Damage Reporting: Reporting damaged racking is mandatory and must be immediate.

●Insider Note: Quebec inspectors are known for their attention to detail, so make sure your
documentation is in order.

Atlantic Provinces: Coastal Considerations

Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI, and Newfoundland and Labrador add their own coastal twist
to the national standards:

● Inspections: OHS audits can happen anytime—be ready.
● Environmental Factors: Salt air and high humidity can corrode metal racking faster.
Regular maintenance is crucial.
● Training: Employees should be trained to spot corrosion and other hazards unique to
coastal environments.

Key Insight: Powder-coated racks offer extra protection against rust in these provinces.

The Territories: Battling the Cold

In the North—Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut—the extreme cold changes the game.
● Cold Storage Requirements: Freezing temperatures can cause some materials to
become brittle. Choose racks designed for cold storage environments.
● Regular Monitoring: Inspections need to happen more often than the national average
to prevent cold-induced failures.

Pro Tip: Consider heated or insulated racking systems if your operation involves perishable
goods.

Stay Compliant, Stay Safe

Safety isn’t just about following the rules—it’s about creating a workplace where everyone feels
secure and valued. At Pac Rac Systems, we’re here to help. From installing world-class
material handling systems to conducting annual inspections, we’ve got you covered.
Got questions? Need an inspection? Visit us at www.pacracsystems.ca. Let’s build safer,
smarter, and more efficient workplaces together!