You know those really big wooden boxes at the grocery store or warehouse? Pallets are those rectangular boxes. Pallets are useful in way that we can carry heavy items, such as food supplies or boxes, from one place to another. But be warned, not all pallets are safe. Some pallets may even be unsafe to use. The types of pallets not to buy.
The Dangers Of Chemically Treated Pallets
Chemical Treated- In some cases, pallets are treated with chemicals that preserve them longer. To protect the pallets from damage, these chemicals are used. However, they can be toxic to life forms (including people). Just think about it what if you ate food from a tray on which there was kept a chemically-treated pallet. This is bad for you - really, horribly unhealthy. So, it speaks for itself that you should better avoid pallets smelling like chemicals or having an unusual smell. Remember, your health is worth more than saving a pallet.
Pros and Cons of Broken or Dented Pallets
Over time pallets do get damaged or broken where it is frequently used to carry heavy items. A damaged or broken pallet can be extremely hazardous. Why? Because it might not be strong enough to hold your heavy thing. Should a pallet crack with heavy items, these heavy pieces could fall upon someone close to you and harm them. Always inspect rackable pallets for damage before using them If you notice that a pallet is fragile or has large cracks, it might be better to not reuse.
Refraining from Pallets that Do Not use Eco-Friendly Raw Material
A common example of this is with some pallets made from materials that are irreplaceable once depleted. So, they are non-renewable materials. So, for instance, if wooden pallets are made from a tree that come under the species of near-extinct tress than it is not good as far. When they are gone, we lose those trees, and simply put- there are no others like them on Earth. Well, this is not healthy for our planet. This is one reason why you should avoid non-sustainable pallets at any cost. Be responsible to our environment so that your and my generations can also see the same.
Dangers of Using Pests-Laden Wooden Pallets
Pallets can harbor pests, be it insects or rodents. Effects Of Kitchen Weevil; There are many problems these pests can cause. They can transport diseases and ruin the valuables you are planning to relocate. You end up using a pallet filled with rat poo to carry food on. Refrain from eating that for sure. It is very important to not use pallets that are infested with pests or show signs of being a possible breeding ground, as this could lead you or others who work with the same kind of products in potential danger. Just be cautious and always make sure your export pallets are clean from pests when you plan to use them.
Identifying and Avoiding Pallets with Toxic Residue
Toxic residues are substances that could endanger a pallet for an extended period of time. A stamp on a pallet stating that it is "HT" means heat-treated; one stamped "MB," for methyl bromide treatment, should be avoided if toxic residues worry you. Heat-Treated Pallet Stamp: This stamp indicates that the pallet has been heat-treated, which is a much more safer option than one treated with dangerous chemicals. Too much pallet smell or discolored words are going to ruin your project too. Should you ever see any of these, immediately go find another pallet.
In Conclusion
You can use pallets when moving heavy objects, however not all are safe so keep that in mind. Never use chemically-treated pallets, damaged or broken pallets, non-sustainable material pallets with pesticides in the timber and residue of virulent toxins like AS 1604 (Australian Standard) treated. Check each purchase plastic pallets for safety before using. Safety is first and foremost, if you are careful then no one will be hurt while moving. Be safe and good luck on your move.