How does the inspection issue priority scale work?

This article explains the meanings of each level (Unload/High/Moderate/Low) in the inspection issue priority scale.

The scale is used in Damotech’s warehouse inspection reports to categorize issues for better understanding and actionable solutions. It helps customers evaluate the urgency and timing of corrective actions, whether for repairs or replacements. 

 

The Scale 

To better understand the issue priority scale provided in the conformity inspection reports (Unload/High/Moderate/Low), the definitions for each issue priority level used in Damotech’s warehouse inspection reports are below. 

  • Low: Issues that do not pose an immediate threat to the safety, functionality, or overall stability of the system. Hence, they should be monitored without immediate attention, suitable for evaluation during routine prevention/maintenance inspections. Some examples of low-priority issues in rack components include minor damage to beams/uprights (small dents, superficial damage to the rack structure that doesn’t compromise its structural integrity), minor paint/coating damage (minor rust), and encumbered areas. 
  • Moderate: Issues that are more significant than low-priority ones but may not pose an immediate threat. Hence, they must be addressed within a reasonable timeframe (no more than 12 months after the inspection). Some moderate-priority issues can include missing/loose anchors in some of the system’s uprights, missing safety pins, and any damage to the rack component that, while not causing an imminent failure, is more severe than minor damage and could compromise the structural integrity over time. 
  • High: Issues requiring immediate attention with an appropriate solution or corrective action due to their potential to cause safety risks and compromise the structural integrity of the rack. Some examples of high-priority issues include missing wire mesh decking in bays with pedestrian walkways (tunnels), out-of-plumb/out-of-straight uprights, excessive beam deflection equal or slightly over the specified code limits, and sheared columns/braces. 
  • Unload: Serious issues demanding the immediate unloading of the damaged rack portion before taking corrective actions. These issues cause significant safety risks due to extensive damage to rack beams, uprights, or other key components that jeopardize the overall stability and structural integrity of the rack system. Some unload priority issues can include out-of-plumb/out-of-straight uprights, excessive beam deflection considerably over the code limits, severely damaged bracings, unstable loads, and detached beams. 

This priority scale facilitates the organization of issues and transforms proposed solutions into actionable measures. By utilizing our priority scale, customers gain a clearer understanding of the urgency and timing associated with implementing corrective actions, be it for repairs or replacements.