EN 18121:2026

• Abstract:

  This document specifies requirements and test methods for free standing and floor fixed steel upright protector and free standing and floor fixed steel frame barriers for adjustable pallet racking.; Frame barriers and upright protectors, according to this document, are not connected to the rack. Frame barriers and upright protectors connected to the racking are excluded from this document.; This document does not apply to:; — devices for traffic routes or drive ways;; — guide rails and guide-ins;; — safety and buffering backstops;; — handrails and stair rails;; — protection from falls at height;; — pick and deposit (P and D) stations;; — protection requirements for dynamic storage; including mobiles;; — protection requirements for crane racking;; — sacrificial legs.

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 15-Sep-2026
• ICS: 53.080 - Storage equipment
• Technical Committee: CEN/TC 344 - Steel static storage systems
• Drafting Committee: CEN/TC 344/WG 6 - Rack protections
• Current Stage: 6060 - Definitive text made available (DAV) - Publishing
• Start Date: 16-Sep-2026
• Due Date: 19-Jun-2026
• Completion Date: 16-Sep-2026
• Ref Project: SIST EN 18121:2026 - Design and use of free standing steel rack protection for adjustable pallet racking - Upright protectors and frame barriers - Requirements and test methods

Overview

EN 18121:2026 is a European standard developed by CEN that specifies the requirements and test methods for free standing and floor fixed steel upright protectors and steel frame barriers used in adjustable pallet racking systems. The standard addresses safety measures and performance criteria for devices designed to protect the lower parts of pallet rack uprights and frames from accidental impacts in storage environments. Notably, this standard applies only to protection devices that are not connected to the racking itself. It does not cover devices integrated into dynamic storage systems, guide rails, backstops, handrails, or other non-rack-related safety features.

By defining minimum design requirements, energy absorption capacities, and rigorous testing methodologies, EN 18121:2026 supports warehouse safety, reduces rack damage, and helps organizations comply with best practices for storage equipment protection.

Key Topics

• Scope of Application
  The standard applies exclusively to standalone or floor-fixed steel upright protectors and frame barriers that are independent from the racking system. Devices permanently connected to the racks, and protections for driveways, dynamic storage, or crane racking, are outside the scope.

• Design and Specification
  Upright protectors and frame barriers must be specified and designed according to related steel static storage system standards (EN 15512, EN 15620, EN 15629). Minimum design heights, visibility requirements (colors/stripes), and energy absorption capacities are defined to ensure reliable protection against minor impacts.

• Testing and Performance
  The standard sets detailed procedures for laboratory testing, outlining the number of test specimens, energy impact values (e.g., 400 J minimum for mandatory use), and failure criteria (e.g., no contact of protector with rack upright after impact). Tests include frontal and lateral impacts to simulate real-world collision risks from mechanical handling equipment (MHE).

• Installation, Inspection, and Maintenance
  EN 18121:2026 requires clear installation instructions, periodic inspection protocols, and maintenance guidelines to ensure long-term effectiveness and safety compliance. It emphasizes the need for regular assessments and replacement of damaged protection devices.

• Risk Assessment
  Operators are advised to conduct risk assessments to determine the necessity and configuration of rack protection based on factors such as MHE type, warehouse throughput, clearance requirements, and operator experience.

Applications

• Warehouse and Logistics Centers
  Upright protectors and frame barriers designed in accordance with EN 18121:2026 are critical for preventing accidental damage to racking systems in high-traffic warehouse environments, protecting both infrastructure and goods.

• Industrial Storage Facilities
  The standard ensures that storage equipment in manufacturing and assembly plants maintains structural integrity, reducing risks of racking collapse or product loss.

• Retrofit and Upgrades
  EN 18121:2026 provides guidance for retrofitting existing storage systems with compliant protective devices, while highlighting the need to reassess clearances and operational procedures to prevent reduced maneuverability or increased damage risks.

• Occupational Health and Safety Compliance
  Implementing the standard’s requirements helps organizations meet workplace safety regulations and reduces liabilities related to racking impacts and potential operator injury.

Related Standards

• EN 15512 - Steel static storage systems – Adjustable pallet racking systems – Principles for structural design
• EN 15620 - Steel static storage systems – Tolerances, deformations, and clearances
• EN 15629 - Steel static storage systems – Specification of storage equipment
• EN 15635 - Steel static storage systems – Application and maintenance of storage equipment

By adhering to EN 18121:2026 and associated standards, organizations ensure that their adjustable pallet racking protection aligns with the latest industry requirements for safety, durability, and operational efficiency. This supports safer warehouse environments and optimizes the longevity and reliability of storage equipment.

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-november-2026
Načrtovanje in uporaba prostostoječih jeklenih zaščitnih regalov za nastavljive
paletne regale - Pokončne zaščite in okvirne pregrade - Zahteve in prekusne
metode
Design and use of free standing steel rack protection for adjustable pallet racking -
Upright protectors and frame barriers - Requirements and test methods
Auslegung und Verwendung von Anfahrschutz für verstellbare Pallettenregale - Pfosten-
und Rahmenschutz - Anforderungen und Prüfverfahren
Conception et utilisation de protections en acier pour rayonnages à palettes réglables -
Protecteurs des montants et des échelles - Exigences et méthodes d'essai
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 18121:2026
ICS:
53.080 Skladiščna oprema Storage equipment
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

EN 18121
EUROPEAN STANDARD
NORME EUROPÉENNE
September 2026
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
ICS 53.080
English Version
Design and use of free-standing steel rack protection for
adjustable pallet racking - Upright protectors and frame
barriers - Requirements and test methods
Conception et utilisation de protections en acier pour Auslegung und Verwendung von freistehendem Stahl-
rayonnages à palettes réglables - Protecteurs des Anfahrschutz für verstellbare Pallettenregale - Pfosten-
montants et des échelles - Exigences et méthodes und Rahmenschutz - Anforderungen und
d'essai Prüfverfahren
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 17 August 2026.

CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this
European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references
concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN
member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by
translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management
Centre has the same status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye and
United Kingdom.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION

EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2026 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 18121:2026 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.

Contents Page
European foreword . 4
Introduction . 5
1 Scope . 6
2 Normative references . 6
3 Terms and definitions . 6
4 Requirements . 11
4.1 Specification, design and inspection / maintenance. 11
4.2 Frame barrier . 11
4.3 Upright protector . 12
4.3.1 General. 12
4.3.2 Upright protector for corner protection . 12
4.3.3 Upright protector for in-aisle protection . 14
4.4 Mechanical performance. 15
4.4.1 General. 15
4.4.2 Upright protector . 16
4.4.3 Frame barriers . 16
4.5 Clearances . 18
4.5.1 Upright protector . 18
4.5.2 Frame barriers . 19
5 Testing . 19
5.1 General. 19
5.2 Assembly of test specimens. 19
5.3 Number of tests . 19
5.4 Test criteria (definition of failure load) . 19
5.5 Test reports . 19
5.6 Corrections to test load . 20
5.7 Schedule of tests . 20
5.8 Protection testing . 21
5.8.1 General. 21
5.8.2 Upright protector and frame barrier testing . 22
5.9 Testing to determine the level of damage to be categorized as Green Risk . 25
5.9.1 General. 25
5.9.2 Number of tests . 25
5.9.3 Test procedure . 25
5.10 Analysis of results . 26
6 Documentation . 26
6.1 General. 26
6.2 Installation details . 26
6.3 User manual . 26
6.4 Inspection and maintenance. 27
Annex A (informative) Selection criteria and inspection . 28
Annex B (informative) Retro-fitting of protectors . 30
Bibliography . 31

European foreword
This document (EN 18121:2026) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 344 “Steel static
storage systems”, the secretariat of which is held by UNI.
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an
identical text or by endorsement, at the latest by March 2027, and conflicting national standards shall be
withdrawn at the latest by March 2027.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. CEN shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
Any feedback and questions on this document should be directed to the users’ national standards body.
A complete listing of these bodies can be found on the CEN website.
According to the CEN-CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organisations of the
following countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia,
Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland,
Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of North
Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye and the United
Kingdom.
Introduction
The purpose of this document is to provide information on the requirements, design, use and test
procedures of steel upright protectors and steel frame barriers, not connected to the rack (free standing),
for pallet racking.
Such protection reduces the risk of contact to uprights and upright frame bracing members depending
on the level of impact, but is usually incapable of stopping a travelling truck.
Adequate protection depends on a number of parameters, as given in a risk assessment.
Appropriate operator training and safety measures reduce contact caused by fork-lift trucks or other
moving equipment against rack-uprights.
As requirements and test procedures given in this document base on free-standing steel upright
protectors and free-standing steel frame barriers, these requirements and test procedures can be taken
as guideline for non-steel products, whereas a declaration of those products against this document is
explicitly not intended.
1 Scope
This document specifies requirements and test methods for free standing and floor fixed steel upright
protector and free standing and floor fixed steel frame barriers for adjustable pallet racking.
Frame barriers and upright protectors, according to this document, are not connected to the rack. Frame
barriers and upright protectors connected to the racking are excluded from this document.
This document does not apply to:
— devices for traffic routes or drive ways;
— guide rails and guide-ins;
— safety and buffering backstops;
— handrails and stair rails;
— protection from falls at height;
— pick and deposit (P and D) stations;
— protection requirements for dynamic storage; including mobiles;
— protection requirements for crane racking;
— sacrificial legs.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 15629, Steel static storage systems — Specification of storage equipment
EN 15512:2020+A1:2022, Steel static storage systems — Adjustable pallet racking systems — Principles
for structural design
EN 15620, Steel static storage systems — Tolerances, deformations and clearances
EN 15635, Steel static storage systems — Application and maintenance of storage equipment
EN ISO 6892-1, Metallic materials — Tensile testing — Part 1: Method of test at room temperature
(ISO 6892-1)
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
3.1
frame barrier
free standing and floor fixed steel component(s) to protect the lower part of upright frames at the ends
of runs and at passageways against accidental impact from mechanical handling equipment (MHE)
Note 1 to entry: Frame barriers are free standing and floor fixed components
Note 2 to entry: Figure 1b) shows a possible combination of a frame barrier with an upright protector. According
to the design of the frame barrier it can also be installed by itself (see Figure 1a).
[SOURCE: EN 15878:2010, 3.3.8 – modified, “and floor fixed steel” added]
a) Example of a frame barrier
b) Example of a frame barrier as a combination of a frame barrier (as protection rails)
with an upright protector
Figure 1 — Examples of frame barriers
3.2
upright protector
free standing and floor fixed steel component to protect the lower part of uprights against accidental
impact from mechanical handling equipment (MHE)
[SOURCE: EN 15620:2021]
Note 1 to entry: See Figure 2.

a) Example of an upright protector (for corner protection, two-sided)
b) Example of an upright protector (for in-aisle protection, three-sided)
Figure 2 — Examples of upright protectors
4 Requirements
4.1 Specification, design and inspection / maintenance
Frame barriers and upright protectors shall be specified according to EN 15629 and designed in
accordance with EN 15512:2020+A1:2022 and EN 15620.
NOTE 1 Annex A provides further information about the selection criteria of rack protection.
Installation instructions shall include instructions for person(s) responsible for storage equipment safety
in accordance with EN 15635 and training information of the staff/operator.
Inspection and maintenance shall be in accordance with EN 15635.
NOTE 2 Rack protection included in the rack design is part of the design of the rack.
4.2 Frame barrier
Frame barriers can optionally be located close to the rear uprights of the end frame and frame bracing at
each side of a passage way (see Figure 3) to provide:
— a visual warning;
— a physical barrier for the front and side of the corner upright for mechanical handling equipment
entering an aisle;
and
— a physical barrier to the goods, pallets and/or loads for the protection of the rear upright and bracing.
Frame barriers are available in a variety of forms and if used:
— they shall be positioned in such a way that, after its deformation by absorbing an impact, the upright
will not be contacted;
— they shall be a minimum of 300 mm height from floor level;
— the protector rail shall extend between a maximum of 75 mm above the floor to the specific height of
the frame barrier;
— they shall be made conspicuous by colours and/or stripes.
NOTE 1 See also 4.5.2 for the positioning of the frame protection.
Larger sizes of frame protections are designed according to individual tests.
NOTE 2 The protector rail can extend below the test level of 75 mm to reduce the risk of MHE forks going under
the rail.
Frame barriers can be designed as a stand-alone device (see Figure 1a)) or combined with an upright
protector for corner protection (see Figure 1b)).
Protection by frame barriers is optional and based on user's risk assessment, but recommended for the
rear uprights and frame bracing where goods are stored at the ends outside of a run.
4.3 Upright protector
4.3.1 General
Upright protectors are available in a variety of forms and they shall:
— be positioned in such a way that, after its deformation by absorbing an impact, the upright will not
be contacted;
— be a minimum of 300 mm height from floor level;
— be made conspicuous by colours and/or stripes.
4.3.2 Upright protector for corner protection
Upright protectors for corner protection (see Figure 2a)) shall be installed:
— at the uprights (at the end of the rack)
and
— at the uprights at each side of a passage way (see Figure 3).
Upright protectors for corner protection can be designed as stand-alone devices (see Figure 2a)) or
combined with a frame barrier (see Figure 2b)).
Corner protection is not required where a MHE cannot pass by the end of the rack.
Key
1 frame barrier in combination with an upright protector at passageways
2 upright protectors for in-aisle protection
3 upright protectors for corner protections
4 passageway
Figure 3 — Plan of rack prot
...