How to choose rack end protection and column guards
Rack end protection secures upright columns against impact damage from forklifts and pallet trucks. This guide explains how to choose guard rails and column protectors to DGUV Rule 108-007, the correct height of 400 mm, materials such as steel and polymer, and correct mounting in pallet racking.
Why is rack impact protection mandatory?
Rack uprights are the load-bearing backbone of any storage system. If a column is struck by a forklift and deformed, its load capacity drops sharply and in the worst case the whole rack can collapse. Impact protection absorbs the collision energy and channels it into the floor before the upright is damaged.
DGUV Rule 108‑007 (storage equipment) and the pallet racking standard DIN EN 15512 require impact protection on exposed columns. Corner uprights at aisle ends and all columns along forklift traffic routes count as exposed.
- Always protect corner uprights at aisle ends - the impact risk is highest here.
- Guard drive-throughs and cross aisles on both sides.
- Mount protection free-standing so it does not touch the upright directly.
- Have a competent person inspect columns after any impact.
Guard rail or column protector - which fits?
The main options are the free-standing guard rail, the column protector fitted directly to the upright, and flexible polymer protection. The right choice depends on traffic density, floor condition and the maintenance you want.
Steel guards come galvanised or powder-coated in signal yellow and are anchored into the floor. Polymer protection deforms elastically on impact and returns to shape, so it damages neither floor nor vehicle and cuts follow-up costs.
How is impact protection mounted and inspected?
Impact protection is anchored into load-bearing concrete with heavy-duty anchors - typically four anchors per base plate. A clearance of a few centimetres from the upright is essential so the impact energy is not transferred straight into the column.
- Check floor thickness and concrete quality before setting heavy-duty anchors.
- Keep a clearance of 10 to 15 cm to the protected upright.
- Do not go below 400 mm height; choose more for high-bay racking.
- Inspect anchors and rail after every visible impact.
When selecting, match the base plate to your anchor system and compare the rated impact energy with the weight of your trucks. A fully loaded counterbalance forklift generates far higher forces than a hand pallet truck.
Frequently asked questions
How high must rack end protection be?
Under DGUV Rule 108‑007 at least 400 mm. With heavy forklift traffic or high impact points, taller versions make sense so the fork tips are caught too.
Steel or polymer guard?
Steel is rigid and channels energy into the floor but deforms permanently. Polymer springs back elastically and protects floor and vehicle, but is limited for very high loads.
Must the guard touch the upright?
No. It is mounted free-standing with 10 to 15 cm clearance so the impact energy goes into the floor rather than into the rack upright.
How often is inspection required?
Rack inspection to DIN EN 15635 requires a documented visual check by a competent person at least annually. Deformed protection is replaced.
Looking for the right rack end protection?
We supply guard rails, column protectors and flexible polymer impact protection to DGUV Rule 108-007 - including matching anchor sets.
DGUV compliant
Height and energy absorption to DGUV Rule 108-007.
Firmly anchored
Heavy-duty anchors for load-bearing concrete included.
Clearly visible
Signal yellow hazard colour to DIN EN ISO 3864.
Expert advice
Our storage specialists help you choose.