Not sure about SWL markings but I've dealt with a couple of fatalities arising from the use of A frame racks in granite works. They are not really suitable for this type of storage. A lot of firms have switched over to "toast racks" that limit the movement of the slab. see http://www.hse.gov.uk/sa...bulletins/stoneslabs.htm http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2005/e05055.htm

I'll have another stab but unfortunately not a definitive answer, just applying common sense. The product is sat on the A frame in the yard. If it is not being lifted on the A frame then I cannot really see that LOLER would apply. Treat it the same way as you would a pallet. PUWER route with regular inspections for corrosion certainly. Might also be worth seeing if your lifting equipment inspector will look at the load straps you are using to secure the slabs. What is your transfer mechanism to the pin racks? FLT or tilting slab dolly or yard crane?

I've worked for a couple of companies that transported slate, stone (and granite) slabs, concrete slabs. At those times the slabs were all put onto pallets, so that individual slabs could be pinched and picked off the pallet using a HIAB type crane grabber. Sometimes the whole pallet, but the pallet has to be strong enough. Only at one company did I see an easy way to measure the loads, they had a weighing machine for individual slabs and a truck weighing machine (truck entered site, weighed empty, loaded, weighed again). Some forklift trucks, have a weight measure, to prevent tip over incidents - can help judge. Marking slabs with a Kg weight would be a positive help to those transporting and ultimately erecting on site. I've also transported and moved prefab concrete (rings and walls) again having the weight painted on them helps crane drivers and FLT drivers. Another point, whilst you measure the weight, find the center of gravity and mark that with a V, helps no end when slinging later. As for storage, I've always found that flat is safest. Stacking in a toast rack saves space, especially when using container transport, please remember to to add to the R.A. to add packing dun-age between slabs, to prevent movement and reduce sympathetic vibration. Be sure to have dun-age (wooden timber) at your sites.